Rain Bird Archive - Irrigation Blog for Do-it-yourselfer https://www.irrigation-guide.com/term/rain-bird Garden irrigation blog with A to Z instructions for installing your own irrigation system Thu, 19 Feb 2026 15:30:34 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 Rain Bird Maxi Paw as a sprinkler alternative in difficult water conditions https://www.irrigation-guide.com/rain-bird-maxi-paw-as-a-sprinkler-alternative-in-difficult-water-conditions.html Fri, 21 Nov 2025 12:58:10 +0000 https://www.irrigation-guide.com/?p=3603 Among the sprinklers available on the market, the Rain Bird Maxi Paw has a unique selling point: it's the only pop-up impact sprinkler I know of. Impact sprinklers have largely disappeared from private gardens in recent decades with the rise of gear-driven sprinklers. However, they can still be a viable alternative in challenging water conditions. [...]

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Among the sprinklers available on the market, the Rain Bird Maxi Paw has a unique selling point: it’s the only pop-up impact sprinkler I know of. Impact sprinklers have largely disappeared from private gardens in recent decades with the rise of gear-driven sprinklers. However, they can still be a viable alternative in challenging water conditions. In this article, I’ve taken a closer look at the Rain Bird Maxi Paw.

What are impact sprinklers?

Impact sprinklers are the sprinklers many people remember from their childhood. Impressive devices with a powerful spray, usually mounted on a tripod, they made quite a bit of noise when operating and sprayed a lot of water in the immediate vicinity. This last point made them particularly popular with children, as they could stand next to them in the summer and enjoy a pleasant cooling spray.

This water distribution is achieved by the jet separator, a usually rod-shaped barrier mounted in front of the nozzle. The water shooting through the nozzle hits the jet separator and deflects it to the side. A spring then returns the jet separator to its original position, where it is struck by the jet again. Each deflection causes the sprinkler to rotate a small amount. The impact of the jet on the jet separator creates the characteristic tapping sound of this type of sprinkler and distributes the water in the immediate vicinity.

When is an impact sprinkler necessary?

Impulse sprinklers are still commonplace in agriculture. However, they have become rare in private gardens. Gear-driven sprinklers, sprayers, and rotators have gradually replaced impact sprinklers. These offer several advantages over impact sprinklers: They are significantly quieter, provide more even watering, and are easier to adjust.

The first point is particularly important, as private gardens are usually built right up against the neighbor’s fence, and the impact noise of a sprinkler can be quite loud and perceived as disruptive. Modern gear-driven sprinklers aren’t completely silent either, but they produce a quieter and much more consistent sound.

Therefore, aside from nostalgia, there’s currently no real reason to opt for an impact sprinkler. With one exception: If you only have slightly dirty water available for irrigation, containing sand or sediment, then an impact sprinkler can be a welcome solution!

Gear-driven sprinklers struggle with such conditions, as their gears can become clogged and quickly stop functioning correctly. This is usually solved by using a filter to ensure the water is clean before entering the pipeline. However, with very fine sand, algae, or organic contaminants, this can be difficult and expensive, and may also require a relatively high water pressure.

This explains why the Rain Bird Maxi Paw continues to hold its own in the Rain Bird product range: as a virtually indestructible, robust workhorse, its exposed mechanics and straightforward, simple design make it relatively insensitive to harsh conditions, and it performs reliably even in challenging environments. And I only recommend using it for this specific application; otherwise, a modern gear-driven or rotary sprinkler is a better choice!

Rain Bird Maxi Paw Under the Microscope

What immediately stands out about this sprinkler is its comparatively enormous size. This applies not only to the cap, which has a much larger diameter than other sprinklers, but also to the sprinkler itself.

The relatively large height might make connecting it to the pipeline a bit more difficult. However, the Maxi Paw addresses this by providing not only the standard 3/4-inch connection at the bottom, but also an optional 1/2-inch connection on the side. To use the latter, simply unscrew the plug from the side connection, thus sealing the bottom connection. Even if it doesn’t look like it at first glance: The plug is large enough for this, as the 3/4 inch connection at the base of the sprinkler tapers inwards.

Size comparison of Rain Bird Maxi Paw with Rain Bird 3500 gear-driven sprinkler

Variants

The full name of the sprinkler is Rain Bird Maxi Paw 2045. The 20 indicates the minimum throw distance of 20 feet (6 meters), and the 45 indicates the maximum throw distance of 45 feet (13.7 meters). One or more letters follow to distinguish the four variants:

  • 2045A – The standard model
  • 2045A-NP – Same as above, but with a purple cap instead of black, indicating the use of grey water
  • 2045A-SAM – With an additional Seal-A-Matic check valve, which prevents puddles from forming when used on uneven terrain
  • 2045A-SAM-NP – With a purple grey water cap and Seal-A-Matic check valve

The “Maxi” in Maxi Paw is there because there was previously a smaller model called the Mini Paw. This model has since been discontinued.

The sprinkler is available with a total of 7 different nozzles. The five nozzles 06, 07, 08, 10, and 12 allow for smaller or larger water flow rates and throw distances, respectively. The two nozzles 07LA and 10LA are low-angle nozzles that distribute the water at a shallower angle than the other nozzles. This can be advantageous in areas with strong winds.

Key data Rain Bird Maxi Paw

Rain Bird 2045A Maxi-Paw (Including All 7 nozzles - Bundle) All Nozzles
Name
Rain Bird Maxi Paw
Maximum possible radius:
65 ft. (13.7 m)
Minimum possible radius
30 ft. (6 m)
Adjustable arc
40° to 360°
Water pressure range
25 to 60 psi (1.7 to 4.1 bar)
Water consumption
1.5 to 8.4 gpm (5.6 to 31.8 L)
Precipitation rate
0.28 to 1.21 in/hr (7 to 31 mm/h)
MPR nozzles
Pressure regulation
Inlet size
3/4 inch male thread or alternatively 1/2 inch female thread
Price
$37.99
Rain Bird 2045A Maxi-Paw (Including All 7 nozzles - Bundle) All Nozzles
Name
Rain Bird Maxi Paw
Maximum possible radius:
65 ft. (13.7 m)
Minimum possible radius
30 ft. (6 m)
Adjustable arc
40° to 360°
Water pressure range
25 to 60 psi (1.7 to 4.1 bar)
Water consumption
1.5 to 8.4 gpm (5.6 to 31.8 L)
Precipitation rate
0.28 to 1.21 in/hr (7 to 31 mm/h)
MPR nozzles
Pressure regulation
Inlet size
3/4 inch male thread or alternatively 1/2 inch female thread
Price
$37.99

Adjustment

Adjusting the sprinkler isn’t rocket science. However, compared to modern sprinklers that make it very easy, it’s still a bit more challenging. You can adjust the irrigation sector (either a full circle or a setting from 20 to 340 degrees) and the throw distance using the adjustment screw (according to the manufacturer, a reduction of up to 25% is possible). The nozzles can also be changed.

A special adjustment tool is sold for the Maxi Paw sprinkler, which helps you pull out the riser and lock it in place. This is convenient and certainly not a bad idea if you have many sprinklers to adjust, but the adjustment can also be done by hand or with simple tools.

To pull out the riser, you need a very narrow tool, such as a very flat screwdriver or a flat spatula, to reach into the gap between the riser and the body and pry and pull it out. Instead of using the special adjustment tool to secure it, you can simply hold it in place with your own muscle power and make the necessary adjustments.

Moving the adjustment loops to set the irrigation sector and turning the deflector screw to reduce the spray distance requires no tools; this is done by hand. Changing nozzles is also easy: simply twist them 90 degrees, pull them out, and reinsert them in the same way.

Alternatively, the settings can be adjusted during actual operation, once the sprinkler is supplied with water and extends automatically. This saves you from having to hold the riser, but you shouldn’t mind getting wet, as it’s quite easy to do so.

Personal Impression

What immediately stands out, especially if you’re used to gear-driven or rotary sprinklers, is the forceful spray pattern. It feels significantly less elegant and refined than what you’re used to, but in my opinion, this isn’t a drawback for the intended application, as it explains why the Maxi Paw is much less affected by dirty water. The water is channeled through so directly and efficiently that no dirt can remain in the sprinkler.

In my test, the sprinkler function worked flawlessly. I also found the settings straightforward, and you don’t really need the additional adjustment tool. Simply use the metal adjustment loops to define the area to be irrigated, and you’re good to go. You only need to adjust the limit screw if you need to reduce the spray distance. I also tried changing the nozzle, which is equally simple. Just turn the nozzle 90 degrees and remove it. Then place the new one on top and turn it back 90 degrees to lock it in place.

With the available nozzle set, a matched precipitation rate across multiple sprinklers (MPR) is also possible. A pressure-regulating body is not offered for the Maxi Paw.

The noise level is significantly higher than with gear-driven or rotary sprinklers; it sounds a bit like the rattle of a machine gun. If you or your neighbors are sensitive to noise, an impact sprinkler is not ideal. To give you an idea, I’ve included a short video below showing the sprinkler operating for a few seconds and the noise it produces.

Video of the Bird Maxi Paw in action


In my experience, the Maxi Paw sprinkler irrigates more intensively in its immediate vicinity than gear-driven and rotary sprinklers, which only irrigate very weakly in this area. This would be a factor if the Maxi Paw were used as a standalone unit. In practice, however, impact sprinklers, like gear-driven and rotary sprinklers, should also be used in conjunction with other sprinklers in a square pattern or triangular pattern. This ensures that any uneven watering of one sprinkler is compensated for by the neighboring sprinklers.

In conclusion: If you have a choice, you don’t need to opt for the Maxi Paw, as there are now more modern and better sprinklers on the market, and it does have certain drawbacks. However, for heavy-duty work in difficult water conditions where other sprinklers fail, it is a well-functioning alternative! The sprinkler reliably does what it’s supposed to and, while not quite as easy to use as some other sprinklers, is still quite simple to operate. One drawback is the relatively large area it occupies in the lawn and the somewhat higher operating noise.

Where to buy

The sprinkler is available for around 20 dollar in garden centers, specialist shops and on Amazon (link to product).

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]]> What different types of sprinklers exist? https://www.irrigation-guide.com/what-different-types-of-sprinklers-exist.html Thu, 09 Oct 2025 09:38:05 +0000 https://www.irrigation-guide.com/?p=3592 A handful of different sprinkler types are available on the market, each with different uses, strengths, and weaknesses. Below is an overview and brief explanation of how each type of sprinkler works and what it is suitable for. Based on the basic functionality of the sprinkler, sprinklers can be divided into the following groups: Gear-driven [...]

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A handful of different sprinkler types are available on the market, each with different uses, strengths, and weaknesses. Below is an overview and brief explanation of how each type of sprinkler works and what it is suitable for.

Based on the basic functionality of the sprinkler, sprinklers can be divided into the following groups:

  • Gear-driven sprinklers
  • Sprayers
  • Rotating sprayers (Rotators)
  • Oscillating sprinklers
  • Impact sprinklers

Description of the different sprinkler types

Gear-driven sprinklers

Water pressure drives a gear inside the sprinkler, causing it to rotate in a circular motion. The sprinkler rotates to a certain stop point and then returns to its starting point. The water is released in a relatively concentrated stream.

Gear-driven sprinklers have a comparatively long throw and are suitable for irrigating medium to large areas.

Sprayers

Sprayers do not rotate; they are fixed. Water pressure causes water to spray through an opening in the nozzle in a fan-shaped pattern. The nozzle opening can be enlarged or reduced on most models, allowing the section of the circle to be irrigated to be adjusted. The water is released relatively gently.

Spray sprinklers have a short throw and are used for targeted irrigation of smaller areas, areas with complex contours, or for irrigating more sensitive areas such as flowerbeds.

Rotating Sprayers (Rotators)

Rotators are a hybrid of a gear-driven sprinkler and a sprayer. Like a sprayer, the sprinkler itself does not move; only the small nozzle on the sprinkler head rotates, ensuring that the water is divided into numerous small jets.

Rotators allow for greater throws than sprayers, but smaller ones than gear-driven sprinklers. They are very versatile and can be used to irrigate small to large areas.

Oscillating Sprinklers

Water pressure moves a pivoting arm with nozzles mounted on it in one direction and then back in the opposite direction. Water sprays from the nozzles in fine jets. The water is thus distributed approximately in a rectangular shape, which is why oscillating sprinklers are often referred to as rectangular sprinklers.

Oscillating sprinklers allow for long throw distances, comparable to those of gear-driven sprinklers. They are usually used as simple, non-submersible irrigation solutions installed on the surface, but Gardena also offers a submersible model, the OS-140*. Oscillating sprinklers are relatively susceptible to wind due to their high throw.

Impact Sprinkler

Also called impulse sprinkler, the impact sprinkler is the classic sprinkler type that was used everywhere in the past.. It is now rarely used in gardens but is still very common in agriculture.

Water pressure causes water to shoot through the sprinkler nozzle, deflecting the jet separator located in the stream. This spring then swings back, rotating the sprinkler slightly further, causing the sprinkler to rotate in a circular motion. The deflection of the jet by the jet separator also ensures a wide distribution of the water and creates a rather loud noise. This is one of the main reasons why this type of sprinkler is rarely used in private gardens today.

This type of sprinkler achieves the greatest throw distances. It is usually mounted above ground on a tripod, but Rain Bird also offers the retractable version shown here (Rain Bird Maxi-Paw*).

In addition to their functionality, there are other criteria by which sprinklers can be differentiated. These are often mistakenly confused with the basic sprinkler types listed above, but they are not separate types. Rather, they describe certain characteristics of the sprinklers that apply not only to one sprinkler type, but often to several sprinkler types.

Spray Pattern Shape

According to the shape of the area irrigated by the sprinkler, sprinklers can be divided as follows:

Circular Sprinklers

This is the most common type today. This group includes gear-driven sprinklers, sprayers, rotators, and impulse sprinklers. Depending on the model chosen, they can be used to irrigate a full circle, a semicircle, or another predefined circular sector. Some models have a fixed circular sector, while others allow it to be flexibly adjusted as needed.

Rectangular Sprinklers

This group includes oscillating sprinklers, which always irrigate a rectangular area due to their technical functionality. Rotators and sprayers are also available with special nozzles that create a rectangular spray pattern. These nozzles are used to irrigate narrow strips of lawn, which is why they are also called strip sprinklers. None of the rectangular sprinklers is capable of irrigating a perfectly rectangular area; the irrigated area is always only approximately rectangular.

Sprinkler Visibility

Sprinklers can be visible either all the time or only during irrigation.

Pop-Up Sprinklers

They are installed underground, making them virtually invisible in the garden outside of watering times. When irrigation begins, the water pressure causes the sprinkler head to rise, usually 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) above ground level, depending on the sprinkler model. When irrigation ends, the sprinkler head retracts back into the housing, and the sprinkler cap sits flush, slightly above ground level.

Non-retractable Sprinklers

Non-retractable sprinklers remain permanently on the surface. Typically, these are not connected to the irrigation system via an underground pipeline like retractable sprinklers, but are connected above ground via a hose. These sprinklers are an alternative if you want to set up irrigation with very little installation effort. The exception to this is special professional standpipe sprinklers (shrub sprinklers), which are connected to an underground pipeline but are deliberately used to achieve irrigation from a greater height.

Type of Installation

In-ground or on-ground

In most applications, sprinklers are positioned vertically on the ground or extend out of the ground and project or spray the water in an arc.

Upside down Installation

However, there are also applications where the sprinklers are positioned upside down and rain downwards. These include, for example, irrigation solutions for greenhouses or agricultural watering carts that are pulled across the field and irrigate in strips with the nozzles attached to them. The spray mist solutions used for cooling in cafes or on private terraces also usually spray from top to bottom.

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]]> How do you deactivate a sprinkler that is no longer needed? https://www.irrigation-guide.com/how-do-you-deactivate-a-sprinkler-that-is-no-longer-needed.html Fri, 03 Oct 2025 14:30:10 +0000 https://www.irrigation-guide.com/?p=3580 In an existing irrigation system, it may be necessary to temporarily or permanently deactivate a sprinkler, or even remove it from the system entirely. Here's how it works and what to look out for. Even if you've planned everything perfectly, redesigning your garden may require adapting an existing irrigation sector and relocating sprinklers to other [...]

Der Beitrag How do you deactivate a sprinkler that is no longer needed? erschien zuerst auf Irrigation Blog for Do-it-yourselfer.

]]> In an existing irrigation system, it may be necessary to temporarily or permanently deactivate a sprinkler, or even remove it from the system entirely. Here’s how it works and what to look out for.

Even if you’ve planned everything perfectly, redesigning your garden may require adapting an existing irrigation sector and relocating sprinklers to other locations or deactivating them. The best way to proceed depends primarily on whether the change is permanent or temporary. There are basically two options:

  • Remove the sprinkler completely from the pipeline
  • Leave the sprinkler in the pipeline, but ensure it no longer releases water

If the deactivation has a limited expiration date and the sprinkler is to be used as usual afterward, the second option is recommended, for example, if you set up a sandbox for your children in the garden for a few years, but already know that it will disappear again afterward. Or, for example, if a renovation involves temporarily dedicating a section of the garden to storage and not watering it. However, if the renovation is permanent and renders the sprinkler obsolete, it should be removed completely.

Turning off sprinklers

On the one hand, there are sprinklers and sprayers that have a shut-off function. This includes all Hunter and Rain Bird spray nozzles, whose water flow can be reduced to zero using the adjustment screw. This is also possible with the Gardena SD30 and SD80 pop-up sprayers. Hunter and Rain Bird also offer this option for their state-of-the-art Hunter I-20 and Rain Bird 5000 plus gear-driven sprinklers. Shutting off ensures that no water is released, but the sprinklers still rise. All older Hunter and Rain Bird gear-driven sprinklers and all other Gardena sprinklers do not have an integrated shut-off option.

With the Hunter MP Rotator, there are two options: For Pro-Spray, PRS30, and PRS40 bodies, there are special Hunter sealing caps that can be screwed on instead of the standard cap to seal the bodies at the top. Alternatively, you can screw a Hunter blind nozzle onto all bodies with a 5/8-inch external thread riser instead of standard nozzles. In this case, the nozzle still rises, unlike the previous version, but no longer releases water. These practical shut-off caps and blind nozzles are rarely available in stores. Without knowing exactly what you’re looking for, it’s difficult to find these products, so here are two direct Amazon links*:

Removing the sprinkler and closing the connector

If the sprinkler doesn’t offer any of the options listed above, or if you want to remove it permanently anyway, the easiest way is to remove it and seal the connector attached to the pipeline with a cap. To do this, proceed as follows:

The theoretically possible minimum is to unscrew the sprinkler from the top of the connector by twisting it and then pull it out of the ground. The connector thread is then exposed, and if you have very narrow hands and a lot of fingertip strength, you could theoretically unscrew the cap right away.

In practice, however, this doesn’t really work. On the one hand, there’s a very high risk of accidentally getting soil into the pipeline, and on the other hand, the narrow access makes it almost impossible to exert enough force to properly unscrew the cap, and you also don’t have the necessary space to wrap the thread with Teflon tape beforehand to seal it!

Therefore, you’ll have to invest a few extra minutes and dig a few centimeters around the sprinkler. This is done before unscrewing the sprinkler from the thread to prevent soil from falling into the pipeline during excavation work. Only after the connection point has been thoroughly exposed and cleaned should the sprinkler be unscrewed. If it was mounted on a swing joint, both the sprinkler and the swing joint are removed. Now carefully wrap Teflon tape around the thread of the connector and screw on the cap. It is sufficient to tighten it by hand; no tools are required. Then, pressurize the irrigation system and check that the cap is tight. If everything is correct, the hole can be filled again.

Step-by-step process in pictures:

Special case: When the sprinkler is the last one in the line

The procedure described should be omitted if the sprinkler to be removed is the last one in the line and the pipeline is blown out with compressed air before winter. In this case, this would create a dead end in the irrigation system, where the water would stagnate during the winter and could cause frost damage. Therefore, in such a case, the plug is installed at the sprinkler that was previously passed through in the line. This means the next one in the direction of the water source from the sprinkler to be removed. Immediately after this sprinkler, the pipeline pipe is cut off and an end cap or connector end piece is installed. The removed sprinkler then no longer needs to be plugged, as the upstream section of pipe no longer serves any function. Here, too, a leak test must be performed before filling the pipe.

Caps/Blank Plugs

Caps and blank plugs are available in plastic or metal and are available from irrigation companies such as Rain Bird or Gardena and a variety of other companies. Most sprinklers require caps with a 1/2-inch internal thread; larger sprinklers also require caps with a 3/4-inch internal thread. Some caps include an internal sealing ring, eliminating the need for additional sealing with Teflon tape.

 

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]]> Why do you need a solenoid valve box, and what are the alternatives? https://www.irrigation-guide.com/why-do-you-need-a-solenoid-valve-box-and-what-are-the-alternatives.html Fri, 01 Aug 2025 13:46:32 +0000 https://www.irrigation-guide.com/?p=3550 If you use solenoid valves in your garden to switch between different irrigation zones during an irrigation cycle, the question inevitably arises as to how to safely and effectively house the valves. A suitable and widely used solution is a solenoid valve box, a stable, robust housing that is usually buried underground and houses the [...]

Der Beitrag Why do you need a solenoid valve box, and what are the alternatives? erschien zuerst auf Irrigation Blog for Do-it-yourselfer.

]]> If you use solenoid valves in your garden to switch between different irrigation zones during an irrigation cycle, the question inevitably arises as to how to safely and effectively house the valves. A suitable and widely used solution is a solenoid valve box, a stable, robust housing that is usually buried underground and houses the solenoid valves and, if necessary, other equipment.

In this article, I describe the function of a solenoid valve box in an irrigation system, how to install it, the advantages of using one, and what alternative options exist. I will also introduce some solenoid valve boxes available on the market and show the differences between them.

A solenoid valve box can be used for both regular lawn irrigation and micro-irrigation, and of course, you can also combine both within a single box.

Advantages of Using a Solenoid Valve Box

Using a solenoid valve box offers the following advantages:

Protection from Accidental Damage

This is especially true if you are considering installing the solenoid valves unprotected in the garden as an alternative. Passersby could get caught on such an unprotected structure and inadvertently damage it. Lawnmowers, trimmers, gardening activities, or animals that approach the system out of curiosity or chew on components could also cause damage. The buried box, which is enclosed at the sides and protected by gravel at the bottom and a lid at the top, provides a physical barrier against such damage and also protects against accidental adjustment of settings.

Protection from Wind and Weather

The housing in a solenoid valve box protects the components and wires inside from adverse weather conditions, whether heavy rain, heat, cold, or UV sunlight. It also keeps dirt, debris, moisture, and pests out of the irrigation system. This saves repair costs and extends the life of the system.

Easy Access for Maintenance

A valve box provides easy central access to the solenoid valves, whether in the event of necessary repairs or cleaning, or should a valve need to be replaced. Furthermore, the annual purging of the irrigation system with compressed air can be easily performed centrally via the solenoid valve box.

Neat, visually appealing housing

Unlike exposed valves and cables, a valve box is visually invisible at first glance and unnoticeable. This creates a tidy and clean appearance and does not affect the appearance and aesthetics of the garden.

What does a solenoid valve box consist of?

The following components are used in a solenoid valve box:

  • Solenoid valves
  • Connecting pipes
  • 1 connection fitting for connecting to the supply line
  • Several connection fittings at the outlet for connecting to the outgoing pipelines

As well as a few optional components that can be very useful in practice:

  • Filter
  • Compressed air connection
  • Ball valve
  • Damp-proof box for wiring

Both solenoid valve boxes and wall-mounted systems are very simple in their basic design: The water flows through a main pipe, from which branches lead either on both sides or on one side at right angles. A solenoid valve is attached to each of these branches, which allows water to flow into the corresponding zone on command or closes again, thus terminating the water supply.

Pipe Connections and Connection Fittings

For residential applications, 1-inch diameter pipes are typically used within the solenoid valve box. The connection fittings on the inlet and outlets of the box are usually either 1-inch or 3/4-inch.

Depending on the size of the pipeline you want to work with, it’s best to go straight for the box with the appropriate fittings to avoid the need for intermediate pieces. The pipe connections are not constructed like standard PE fittings; instead, they use special connectors called valve manifolds.

These are designed to save space, so the box doesn’t have to be unnecessarily large, and the connection points are designed as union joints rather than standard threads. This has the great advantage that the connections in the valve box can be removed relatively easily at a later date without having to disassemble the entire box, allowing, for example, a defective solenoid valve to be easily replaced. It’s also relatively easy to make modifications to the box at a later date.

In this view from below, you can see the cross-piece pipe connections arranged one behind the other to save space.

Such valve manifolds are offered by brands such as Dura, Rain Bird, and Irritec. Unlike the connectors used in pipelines, a cross connector is also offered here, i.e., a connector that distributes the water crosswise in four directions.

Solenoid Valves

In principle, any type of solenoid valve can be used in a valve box. It is only important that the connections match the connections of the pipe connections, as solenoid valves are available in different thread sizes and with both external and internal threads. Some solenoid valves also have a flow regulator built in, such as the Hunter PGV-101, which is not a requirement but can be useful in some situations.

Filters

A sieve or disc filter is often installed at the inlet to prevent contaminants from entering the irrigation system. This filter must be cleaned from time to time. If a filter is already installed in the pump or directly downstream of the pump, then the additional filter in the solenoid valve box is not necessary. A filter basket on the intake opening of a suction hose should not be considered a filter replacement in this regard, as it only filters very coarsely.

Example of a filter

Compressed air connection

This is used to blow out the irrigation system with compressed air before winter. A compressor is connected using a suitable connector, and the water is blown out through the sprinklers or other openings. This is not necessary if the system is designed to drain using a drain valve or a manually opened ball valve located at the lowest point .

Ball valve

This is located in the solenoid valve box on the supply line and allows the water supply to the box to be completely shut off. This can be used for maintenance work in the box or in the event of a leak. It is also practical for closing the connection to the water source when blowing out with compressed air, so that the compressed air can only spread in the desired direction toward the sprinklers.

Waterproof junction box for wiring (cable box)

A waterproof junction box, in which the cable wires of the solenoid valves are brought together, is not mandatory, but it makes connecting the solenoid valves to the water computer easier. This saves you the trouble of creating a waterproof connection yourself, and in many cases, the seller already pre-wired the wiring.

This solenoid valve box includes a waterproof junction box, and the solenoid valves are already connected to the junction box. The wiring to the water computer then runs directly from the junction box.

How do you install a solenoid valve box?

Installation isn’t too complicated and involves the following steps:

Selecting a suitable location for the box

It’s important that the cable connections from the solenoid valves housed in the box to the irrigation computer can be neatly laid, so the solenoid valve box is often placed near the irrigation computer. However, this isn’t mandatory; with 19 AWG cables, distances of up to 300 feet are generally possible.

You’ll only see the lid of the final buried box, so choosing the location can also depend on where in the garden it fits best or is least disruptive. Such lids are quite stable and can be walked on, and some can even be driven over by car (check the manufacturer’s instructions!).

Access to the solenoid valve box isn’t usually needed very often. If you use compressed air, then once a year before the start of winter; if you use a filter in the box, then every few months, depending on the level of water contamination, to clean the filter. Otherwise, if everything goes according to plan, there is usually no reason to open the solenoid valve box during normal operation.

Dig a Hole

The hole for the box should be slightly deeper and significantly longer and wider than the outer dimensions of the box to allow space underneath for the gravel fill and sufficient space on the sides to guide the supply line and the pipeline outlets to the zones. Allow about 2 to 4 inches at the bottom, and at least 8 inches around the box.

Fill with Gravel

Ideally, you should place a weed barrier in the area under the box to prevent weeds from growing through from below. Then, add about 2 to 4 inches of coarse gravel to prevent rainwater from stagnating in the box, instead draining away quickly. The gravel is then compacted to prevent the base from giving way.

Insert the box

The box is then positioned so that it is level, there is enough space on the sides for the connections, and its lid sits slightly above ground level, about 0,5 inches. This way, it is not visible in the lawn at first glance and can be safely driven over with the lawnmower. The slight protrusion above ground level prevents softened soil from being washed onto the box during heavy rainfall.

Box positioned in the hole

Connect the pipeline

Now, the connector at the box inlet is connected to the supply pipeline leading to the water source, and the pipelines supplying the individual irrigation zones are connected to the outlets. As always, the following applies here: Use as few connectors as possible to avoid unnecessary pressure loss! Therefore, only use 90-degree connectors (L-pieces) if they are absolutely necessary due to the space available. If conditions permit, it’s better to simply route the pipeline in a wide arc around the bend.

It can’t hurt to color-code the different pipeline ends leading to the irrigation zones, e.g., with differently colored insulating tape. This makes it easier to distinguish which end of the pipeline belongs to which zone when connecting, and you don’t have to figure it out by trial and error.

Test the connections for leaks

I would perform this step before connecting the irrigation computer. Common solenoid valves allow for this by allowing manual opening of the valve. If that’s not possible, this step is only possible once the control system is connected.

To do this, activate the water source and then open and close the individual solenoid valves one after the other. This is done by turning the solenoid valve coil a quarter turn in the direction indicated on the valve.

After opening, carefully check each zone to ensure that no water is leaking at any of the connection points inside or outside the box. Once everything is sealed, you can proceed to the next step.

Connecting Solenoid Valves to the Irrigation Computer

Two wires lead from each solenoid valve. One of these wires must be connected to one of the zone outputs of the irrigation computer. These are usually labeled with numbers, so for an irrigation computer with six zone outputs, for example, these are labeled “1” through “6.” The second wire must be connected to the COM port of the irrigation computer. It doesn’t matter which of the two wires goes to the zone output and which to the COM port. If it’s important that the zones follow a specific order, for example, a certain zone is number 1, then another zone is number 2, and so on, then the wiring must be done accordingly.

Since space would quickly become limited at the shared COM port if the wires from numerous solenoid valves were routed through it, these wires are combined beforehand and then connected to a common wire at the COM port. And since the wires leading from the solenoid valve aren’t very long (approx. 20 inches), an additional control cable is usually required to extend them to the irrigation computer.

These control cables are cables for low-voltage applications with a relatively small cross-section, but a larger number of wires, which can be purchased from irrigation retailers.

This is what a control cable looks like. In this case, it has 7 wires, i.e., for 6 zones.

When joining the wires, make sure they are watertight. Specially offered cable sleeves and grease caps can be used for this purpose. The following article provides a detailed practical example for connecting solenoid valves to the irrigation computer.

Fill the hole again

Now you should perform another test to ensure that the zones can be switched on and off correctly via the computer and that all connections in the box are still sealed. Then, carefully fill the remaining space around the box with soil. It’s best to dig it slightly above the soil level, as the soil will settle slightly over the next few days. Optionally, you can add some humus and sow grass seed, or reinsert a previously dug-out turf so that the area around the lid can quickly become regrowth.

Solenoid valve box fully installed

What alternatives are there to the solenoid valve box?

Under no circumstances is it recommended to bury the solenoid valves themselves – without anything around them – or to bury them in a box that is inaccessible from above or that is completely buried in the ground. In the first case, the valves are not adequately protected, and long-term functionality is not guaranteed. In the second case, if something malfunctions, you cannot reach the valves, or after a longer period of time, you may not even know where the valves are buried.

It is also no longer state of the art to place the valves individually in several locations in the garden. This used to be common practice to save on pipeline costs, but it brings with it disadvantages in operational handling that are far from offset by the comparatively small savings in material costs.

Wall Mounting

An equivalent alternative to placement in a valve box is a wall-mounted system. The components included are practically identical to the internal components of a solenoid valve box, but they are mounted in such a way that the system is suitable for wall mounting.

The advantage over a solenoid valve box is a comparatively lower price and easier installation. The disadvantage is that the valves cannot be elegantly concealed underground; instead, they are visible from the outside. This may not be a problem if the wall bracket is installed in a location that is not or hardly visible from the outside, or in a separate utility room, but in other cases it could make the garden look a bit cluttered.

Example of a valve distributor set suitable for wall mounting (Image: DVS Irrigation)

Automatic Water Distributor

An automatic water distributor is a way to do without solenoid valves altogether. This solution doesn’t work quite as professionally as a solution with solenoid valves, but it is significantly less expensive. Currently, the only product in this segment is the Gardena Automatic Water Distributor. It has 6 zone outputs and operates without electricity, instead using the pressure of the flowing water to switch from one zone output to another.

Gardena Automatic Water Distributor

For this to work, you need a different type of irrigation computer than the one used for switching external solenoid valves—namely, one through which the water flows. And its software must be compatible with the automatic irrigation computer; I explicitly point this out in the following irrigation computer comparison.

Irrigation Computers with Multiple Outputs

Theoretically, it’s even easier to use an irrigation computer with multiple outputs. Models with 2, 3, and even 4 outputs are available on the market; with the Orbit B-Hyve XD and the LinkTap Q1, there are even smart models with 4 outputs that can be controlled via the web.

Orbit B-hyve XD Irrigation Computer with 4 outlets

Should you buy a ready-made solenoid valve box or assemble it yourself?

Building it yourself is basically quite possible; all the necessary components are also available separately. The challenge is, on the one hand, to ensure everything is properly sealed and, on the other, to make the box compact enough to avoid taking up too much space in the garden.

You can only save a limited amount by building it yourself: Ready-made solenoid valve boxes for 6 zones cost around $400 to $500 in stores, with the cheapest options starting at around $300. Six solenoid valves alone cost around $150. A large empty jumbo valve box costs $70 to $100. Three valve manifold crosspieces cost around $25, and the seven required PE pipe connectors cost around $35. This brings the material costs to around $300, and that doesn’t include a filter, compressed air connection, ball valve, or moisture-proof box. These add up to another $80 to $100.

Ultimately, a maximum saving of $100 seems possible, but it involves a lot of effort and the risk of having to deal with leaks or purchasing incorrect components that don’t fit together properly. In my experience, DIY construction isn’t really worth it in this area. I would only recommend it if you need a solution outside of the standard range, e.g., because space isn’t available, or if it’s important to you to install very specific components in the box.

What should you look for when buying?

There’s a wide range of pre-assembled solenoid valve boxes on the market, some from well-known brands like Rain Bird or Hunter, and some from no-name suppliers. And some are also hybrids, e.g., no-name pipe connections and housings combined with branded solenoid valves from Hunter.

Brand or no-name?

My tip: I would advise against completely no-name products in this area, as the product quality is questionable and you run the risk of purchasing a product that is unreliable in everyday use and potentially causes a lot of trouble. However, I think a hybrid, where the essential components like the solenoid valves are from branded manufacturers, but the rest of the components are partly or entirely no-name, is worth considering. This could save you a few hundred dollars or more compared to a 100% branded product. In such a case, I would just pay special attention to ensuring the housing is sturdily built. Some boxes are offered that look quite delicate, and I have doubts about whether they’re even suitable for driving over them. The option with the lowest risk is obviously to go for the complete branded product.

Number of Zones

The first selection criterion is the number of zones you want to supply with the valve box. The box must contain at least that many solenoid valves, although it never hurts to have one or two zones in reserve in case you want to expand or modify something. Solenoid valve boxes aren’t available in any size; the largest I know of are for 10 zones, but usually they top out at 6. If you need more, you’ll have to install multiple boxes.

Direct or alternating current

Depending on whether you’re using a water computer with a power connection or a battery-powered water computer, you’ll need a box with 24-volt alternating current (AC) or 9-volt direct current (DC) solenoid valves. Most of the models available are 24V valves.

Size of the inlets and outlets

Boxes are available with 1-inch or 3/4-inch inlets and outlets, some packages allow you to select the size variable at the time of purchase. Ideally, you should buy a box that matches the planned connection sizes. So, if you have a 1-inch supply line, choose one with a 1-inch connector on the inlet side, and if you’re using a 3/4-inch pipeline on the zone side, choose one with a 3/4-inch connector on the outlet side.

Included extras

If you haven’t planned a drain valve or a deep-seated ball valve in your irrigation system for frost protection, then a compressed air connection included in the box is mandatory. In conjunction with the compressed air connection, a ball valve on the inlet side is a great advantage, as it makes it very easy to avoid the compressed air blowing toward the water source.

A filter is also required if you haven’t already planned for one elsewhere. This is even more important if you are also operating micro-irrigation zones.

A damp-proof box is also perfectly fine; it simplifies the initial installation. Alternatively, you can easily make the waterproof connections yourself using suitable accessories.

 

Der Beitrag Why do you need a solenoid valve box, and what are the alternatives? erschien zuerst auf Irrigation Blog for Do-it-yourselfer.

]]> In the test: Hunter MP-Rotator side strip sprinkler as a solution for watering narrow lawn strips https://www.irrigation-guide.com/in-the-test-hunter-mp-rotator-side-strip-sprinkler-as-a-solution-for-watering-narrow-lawn-strips.html Tue, 26 Nov 2024 08:10:22 +0000 https://www.irrigation-guide.com/?p=2972 Irrigating a narrow, elongated area is one of the most difficult tasks when installing irrigation. Some manufacturers offer strip sprinklers specially developed for this purpose. This article uses the Hunter MP-Rotator side strip sprinklers to show how such strip sprinklers work and how well they perform in practice, and highlights other alternatives from other suppliers. [...]

Der Beitrag In the test: Hunter MP-Rotator side strip sprinkler as a solution for watering narrow lawn strips erschien zuerst auf Irrigation Blog for Do-it-yourselfer.

]]> Irrigating a narrow, elongated area is one of the most difficult tasks when installing irrigation. Some manufacturers offer strip sprinklers specially developed for this purpose. This article uses the Hunter MP-Rotator side strip sprinklers to show how such strip sprinklers work and how well they perform in practice, and highlights other alternatives from other suppliers.

The solution approach of strip sprinklers sounds compelling: instead of supplying a narrow strip of lawn with water using a large number of small circular sprinklers or sprayers, sprinklers are used that irrigate an almost rectangular pattern. This is why they are often referred to as rectangular sprinklers.

Such sprinklers are offered by Hunter, Rain Bird and other suppliers, although only Hunter with the MP-Rotator strip sprinklers and Rain Bird with the R-VAN strip sprinklers offer a rotating sprinkler type (rotating nozzle sprinkler), most of the other solutions offered are nozzle sprinklers that release the water in a comparatively gush-like manner and in large quantities. You notice this difference when comparing the rainfall rates.

The rectangular irrigation pattern is not achieved with one sprinkler alone in all solutions, but rather several sprinklers must be placed in a coordinated manner. With one sprinkler alone, many places, especially in the immediate vicinity of the sprinkler, would remain completely dry and even irrigation would not be possible.

Introducing the Hunter MP-Rotator side strip sprinkler

With this solution, three sprinklers are placed in a predetermined pattern to supply a strip of lawn. The width of the lawn strip is 60 inches. The Hunter MP Rotator side strip sprinkler is a circular sprinkler from the MP-Rotator family that has very low water consumption and also works according to the MPR principle, i.e. ensures that the lawn is watered as evenly as possible. The water is not released in a gush, but the sprinkler head moves during irrigation and divides the water into fine strips of water.

To supply a strip of lawn measuring 60 inches x 360 inches, you need the following 3 sprinklers:

  • MP-LCS 515 -> Left Corner
  • MP-RCS 515 -> Right Corner
  • MP-SS 530-> Side Strip, to be placed in the middle of the strip

The body for this type of sprinkler must be purchased separately. You can get a cheap Pro-Spray body for around 3 USD, or even better, you can get a PRS-40 housing that is pressure-regulated to 40 psi for 10 to 12 USD. This automatically ensures that 40 psi of pressure (and no more) reaches the sprinkler, giving it exactly the ideal pressure recommended by the manufacturer. Of course, you have to make sure that enough pressure reaches the body yourself; the body can only reduce the pressure, not increase it.

In practice, the positioning of the 3 sprinklers looks something like this:

Irrigating a rectangular strip measuring 60 x 360 inches with Hunter MP-Rotator side strip sprinklers

The three sprinklers are all placed on the same side at the edge of the strip, the LCS on the left, the SS in the middle and the RCS on the right. From the sketched throwing area, you can see that you have to rain a little beyond the strip if you want to irrigate all the edge areas of the strip as well as possible. The sprinklers would be positioned about 180 inches apart and would supply water to a strip of about 60 x 360 inches.

If you instead have a lawn strip twice as wide, about 60 x 720 inches, you would need not 6 but only 5 sprinklers, three SS and one LCS and RCS each. The sprinklers are then placed, as before, at a distance of approximately 180 inches, as follows:

Watering a rectangular strip of 60 x 720 inches with Hunter MP-Rotator side strip sprinklers

Alternatively, you can also place two of the sprinklers on the opposite side:

Alternative positioning with two opposite sprinklers

And if you want to irrigate a short strip of 60 x 180 inches, then one LCS and one RCS sprinkler are sufficient:

Positioning for a strip of 60 x 180 inches

Water pressure

Hunter recommends a pressure of 40 psi on the sprinkler to operate this type of sprinkler ideally and specifies a rectangular area of ​​60 x 360 feet that is irrigated at 40 psi. The easiest way to achieve this perfect 40 psi is to use the appropriate body that is regulated to 40 psi pressure (Hunter Pro-Spray PRS-40). If a slightly smaller or larger strip is to be irrigated, the throw distance can be reduced or increased by increasing or decreasing the water pressure, or the throw distance can be reduced by up to 25% by adjusting the interference screw in the sprinkler.

Since the Hunter MP-Rotator side strip, like all MP-Rotator sprinklers, has a built-in MPR principle, the precipitation rate adjusts automatically. If an alternative PRS-30 body is used, which regulates the pressure to 30 psi, the irrigated rectangle would be approximately 47 x 340 feet. As always, it should be noted that these are laboratory values ​​that experience has shown are not quite achieved in practice. It is a good idea to always calculate about 10% less, i.e. place the sprinklers a little closer together.

Precipitation rate

The MP-Rotator side strip has a precipitation rate of approximately 0.58 inches/hour. This differs only slightly from the approximately 0.43 inches that the MP-Rotator usually has in the square pattern, so the MP-Rotator side strip sprinklers can also be operated together with the other MP-Rotator sprinklers in a zone.

This does not apply to the MP-Rotator MP800 series, as this has a precipitation rate that is almost twice as high at approximately 0.78 inches/hour. If you want to operate side strip sprinklers in a shared zone with MP800 sprinklers, Hunter recommends setting the sprinklers twice, i.e. once as described in the first and second positioning examples above and a second time opposite each other. This would result in a rainfall rate of approximately 1.14 inches per hour. Alternatively, you can also operate the side strip sprinklers in their own, independent sector.

Hunter MP-Rotator strip sprinkler in the test

I tried out the Hunter strip sprinklers in my test environment.

Hunter MP-Rotator RCS in action

The picture shows the sprinkler (RCS) to be placed in the right corner. The wet floor panels clearly show that the throw distance of 180 inches promised by the manufacturer is achieved quite well; one panel is 20 inches long and wide.

And here for comparison the MP-SS to be placed in the middle

To what extent are the throw distance and width accurate?

The test result matched the performance data promised by the manufacturer pretty well:

  • The throw distance of 180 inches is pretty much achieved, only the last 20 inches were a bit tight, as only a few drops of water reached the area. In real operation, I would therefore be better off calculating with 20 inches less, so that the MPR principle is still adhered to at the last corner and it receives enough water.
  • The throw width of 60 inches is covered pretty precisely. And above all: According to my test, there is hardly any overspray, and if so, only by a few inches. The MP-Rotator works very consistently and evenly. With a little fine-tuning by adjusting the sprinkler, you can water a predefined strip very precisely and reliably.

Alternatively, I also tried how the spray pattern behaves with only 30 psi pressure on the sprinkler. Result: The sprinkler works perfectly and evenly even at 30 psi. The throw distance and width are imperceptibly shorter by about 8 to 12 inches, which corresponds very well to the manufacturer’s specifications. Out of interest, I then tried going down to 20 psi and further. Even at 20 psi, the sprinkler still worked quite well, but below that the desired spray pattern was very difficult to maintain.

The pressure measurement directly on the sprinkler was carried out with an MP-Rotator measuring device, which is screwed directly in front of the nozzle.

Water Flow and Precipitation Rate

The water flow I measured of 13 gallons per hour for the RCS and LCS and 26 gallons per hour for the SS is exactly what Hunter specifies. This also matches the precipitation rate I calculated above of 0.58 inches per hour.

Other alternatives for watering a lawn strip

In addition to the strip sprinkler presented above, there are a few other ways to water a lawn strip:

Rotating strip nozzles from Rain Bird

The Rain Bird counterpart to the Hunter MP Rotator strip nozzles are the Rain Bird R-VAN strip nozzles. In terms of spray pattern and application, they are practically identical to those from Hunter.

Watering with MP800 sprinklers with a very short throw

The Hunter MP Rotator MP800 sprinkler is a “normal” circular sprinkler, but can be set to a very short throw of up to 70 inches, so that you can also water lawn strips of at least 70 inches wide. For a strip of 70 x 360 inches, this could look like this (drawn with the DVS Irrigation Irrigation Planner):

The MP800 has a precipitation rate of 0.8 inches/hour, which is about twice as high as the other MP Rotator sprinklers. You should therefore not mix them in a common zone.

Irrigation with a square sprinkler

The principle of this type of sprinkler is familiar from sprinklers that can be placed freely on the lawn: These throw the water high up and slowly swing from left to right and then back again. In this way, the area directly around the sprinkler is also supplied with water quite well. This type of sprinkler is usually not submersible; the only pop-up sprinkler I know of is the OS-140 from Gardena. Since it is possible to set the sprinkler’s throw width very narrowly, up to 40 inches wide, by variably adjusting the nozzles and the throw distance can also be greatly reduced, this sprinkler also represents an alternative for watering a narrow strip of garden. The biggest disadvantage is that the sprinkler is significantly larger than others and therefore requires a significantly larger recess in the ground than others. This is not very attractive visually and could be perceived as disturbing in the lawn.

Spray nozzles from Hunter and Rain Bird

Hunter and Rain Bird also offer classic spray nozzles with a large flow rate and a rectangular spray pattern. At Hunter, these nozzles are called the same as the MP-Rotator nozzles: RCS-515, LCS-515 and SS-530. Like the MP-Rotator side strip nozzles, these are placed on the edge of the strip. Alternatively, Hunter also offers nozzles that are placed in the middle of the strip with the CS-530 and ES-515 nozzles.

The counterpart from Rain Bird is the 15-strip series. Nozzles: 15RCS, 15LCS, 15SST (placed on the edge), 15EST, 15CST (placed in the middle of the strip).

Der Beitrag In the test: Hunter MP-Rotator side strip sprinkler as a solution for watering narrow lawn strips erschien zuerst auf Irrigation Blog for Do-it-yourselfer.

]]> In the test: Hunter Pro HC Hydrawise vs. Rain Bird ESP-TM2 with LNK WiFi module https://www.irrigation-guide.com/in-the-test-hunter-pro-hc-hydrawise-vs-rain-bird-esp-tm2-with-lnk-wifi-module.html Fri, 26 Jan 2024 14:24:41 +0000 https://www.irrigation-guide.com/?p=2524 In the following article I will compare the Hunter Pro-HC irrigation computer with the Rain Bird ESP-TM2 in combination with the Rain Bird WiFi module in a practical test. The article also includes a comparison of the Hydrawise system used in the web-enabled Hunter computers with the Rain Bird Smart Watering system used in [...]

Der Beitrag In the test: Hunter Pro HC Hydrawise vs. Rain Bird ESP-TM2 with LNK WiFi module erschien zuerst auf Irrigation Blog for Do-it-yourselfer.

]]>

In the following article I will compare the Hunter Pro-HC irrigation computer with the Rain Bird ESP-TM2 in combination with the Rain Bird WiFi module in a practical test. The article also includes a comparison of the Hydrawise system used in the web-enabled Hunter computers with the Rain Bird Smart Watering system used in the Rain Bird computers.

Below you will find an overview of the product offering from Hunter and Rain Bird in the area of web-enabled irrigation computers and a brief introduction to which strategy they each pursue:

With the purchase of the Hydrawise company in 2016, Hunter suddenly acquired enormous know-how in the field of WiFi irrigation computers. The Australian startup Hydrawise was only founded in 2011 and developed a very successful web-enabled irrigation computer with sophisticated functionality from scratch in a very short time and with a focus on well-functioning software. Hunter has adopted this software into its own Hunter Hydrawise product line, further developed it and combined it with Hunter’s strengths in the production of irrigation computer hardware.

Rain Bird also has this distinctive know-how in the construction of classic irrigation computers but originally pursued a slightly different strategy: Rain Bird did not offer web-enabled irrigation computers as a separate product category, but rather enabled the customer to improve their conventional Rain Bird irrigation computer with an additional module card into a web-enabled irrigation computer. The LNK Wifi module required for this has been available on the market since 2016 and since then some Rain Bird irrigation computers have been equipped with the necessary connection slot. Currently four Rain Bird models are WiFi ready, meaning they can be upgraded with the additional WiFi card.

Since 2020, the strategies of Hunter und Rain Bird have aligned somewhat: Hunter now also offers the option of subsequently upgrading an irrigation computer into a web-enabled irrigation computer. The new redesigned Hunter X2 has a a prepared plug-in slot that allows it to be transformed into a web-enabled computer with the Hydrawise system using the new Hunter Wand module. And in return, with the Rain Bird ST8-WiFi 2.0 and the Rain Bird RC2, Rain Bird offers, for the first time, irrigation computers that already have WiFi on board. So both manufacturers now offer products that are already web-enabled and those that can optionally be made web-enabled with an expansion card. The software used in the Hydrawise or Rain Bird Smart Watering computers is always the same across all models from each manufacturer, regardless of whether web access is on board or expanded with a plug-in card.

Which models are available?

Hunter Hydrawise

Hunter’s Hydrawise product line currently consists of 5 products:

  • Hunter HC Hydrawise
  • Hunter Pro-HC Hydrawise
  • Hunter HPC Hydrawise
  • Hunter HCC Hydrawise
  • Hunter X2 in combination with a Hunter Wand WiFi plug-in module

In the sales offers, the name Hydrawise is not always included in the product name, as it is actually already included in the model name through the “H”. But with the exception of the Hunter X2, the irrigation computers listed above are in any case always Hydrawise computers.

The Hunter HC is the irrigation computer that was designed by the Hydrawise company back in the day. The other products are computers built from scratch by Hunter. The software used is the same in all models. The Hunter HC and the Hunter Pro-HC are particularly interesting for the usual private user. But also the Hunter Wand Module, if you want to subsequently make a conventional Hunter X2 computer web-enabled. The HC is the cheapest model, but you have to make small compromises in terms of manufacturing quality, as the focus in development at the time was entirely on the software and less on the hardware. And the HC is only suitable for indoor use. The Pro-HC was already manufactured by Hunter and is as high-quality and robustly built as you would expect from a Hunter computer. It is also available in an outdoor version.

The Hunter HPC and Hunter HCC hardly play a role. In my opinion, the Hunter HPC can do less than the Pro-HC and is rarely offered on the market. The Hunter HCC is aimed at large commercial systems where it is necessary to supply water to a large number of zones and can optionally be operated with a two-wire decoder system. It is also the only Hydrawise computer that can open two valves at the same time.

The Hunter X2 in combination with a Hunter Wand module is a consideration for those who are initially satisfied with a conventional irrigation computer, but would like to keep the option open to switch later. Compared to Rain Bird’s modular system, Hunter Wand works a little differently. By using the wall module, you practically switch to web use and deactivate most of the functions directly on the computer. Unlike Rain Bird, where both are always completely synchronized, so you can always do everything on both the computer device and the app. The principle used by Hunter has the advantage that you can use the full software functionality and are not limited by the capabilities of the computer. You only have to make a small compromise when it comes to the number of programs when using Hunter Wand (only 3 programs instead of the usual 6 with Hydrawise).

My tip: If your budget isn’t yet stretched to bursting, I would recommend accepting the manageable surcharge and choosing the higher quality Hunter Pro-HC in the weather-protected outdoor version. This means you are on the safe side in terms of manufacturing quality and also benefit from one or two details that Hunter has improved compared to the original model.

Overview of the WiFi enabled Hunter irrigation computers on Amazon:

Hunter HC-600i Hydrawise Touch Screen Smart WiFi Enabled 6 Zone Sprinkler Controller
Hunter Company Hydrawise Pro-HC 12-Station Indoor Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller (PHC-1200i)
Hydrawise Hunter HCC-800-PL Wi-Fi Timer 8-38 Stations Web Based i-Phone Android App HCC800PL
Hunter Hydrawise X2 8 Zone Sprinkler Controller, Outdoor Irrigation Timer for Lawn and Garden, Weather Based Scheduling, Cycle and Soak, Smart Controller Ready with Optional WiFi Module 8-Station controller
Computer
Hunter HC
Hunter Pro-HC
Hunter HCC
Hunter X2 (for WiFi additional Hunter Wand module required!)
Zones
6 or 12
6, 12 or 24
8, modularly expandable up to 54
4, 6, 8 or 14
Indoor/Outdoor
Indoor
Indoor + outdoor model available
Outdoor
Outdoor
Programs and start times
6 programs with 6 start times each
6 programs with 6 start times each
6 programs with 6 start times each
4 watering intervals per zone with 6 start times each
Price
Price not available
$399.00
$528.68
$101.15
Hunter HC-600i Hydrawise Touch Screen Smart WiFi Enabled 6 Zone Sprinkler Controller
Computer
Hunter HC
Zones
6 or 12
Indoor/Outdoor
Indoor
Programs and start times
6 programs with 6 start times each
Price
Price not available
Hunter Company Hydrawise Pro-HC 12-Station Indoor Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller (PHC-1200i)
Computer
Hunter Pro-HC
Zones
6, 12 or 24
Indoor/Outdoor
Indoor + outdoor model available
Programs and start times
6 programs with 6 start times each
Price
$399.00
Hydrawise Hunter HCC-800-PL Wi-Fi Timer 8-38 Stations Web Based i-Phone Android App HCC800PL
Computer
Hunter HCC
Zones
8, modularly expandable up to 54
Indoor/Outdoor
Outdoor
Programs and start times
6 programs with 6 start times each
Price
$528.68
Hunter Hydrawise X2 8 Zone Sprinkler Controller, Outdoor Irrigation Timer for Lawn and Garden, Weather Based Scheduling, Cycle and Soak, Smart Controller Ready with Optional WiFi Module 8-Station controller
Computer
Hunter X2 (for WiFi additional Hunter Wand module required!)
Zones
4, 6, 8 or 14
Indoor/Outdoor
Outdoor
Programs and start times
4 watering intervals per zone with 6 start times each
Price
$101.15

WiFi expansion module Hunter Wand at Amazon:

Auto Amazon Links: No products found.

Rain Bird Smart Watering

Rain Bird currently has 5 web-enabled irrigation computers in its range:

  • Rain Bird ESP-RZX
  • Rain Bird ESP-TM2
  • Rain Bird ESP-ME3
  • Rain Bird ST8I-2.0
  • Rain Bird RC2

The ESP in the model name stands for “Extra-Simple Programming”.

For the frist 3 Rain Bird Computers to make them web-enabled, you need an additional Rain Bird LNK WiFi plug-in module; the ST8I-2.0 and the RC2 already have web access on board as standard.

Overview of the WiFi enabled Rain Bird irrigation computers on Amazon:

Rain Bird ST8I-2.0 Smart Indoor WiFi Sprinkler/Irrigation System Timer/Controller, WaterSense Certified, 8-Zone/Station, Compatible with Amazon Alexa 8-Station Indoor Timer
Rain Bird ESP-TM2 8 Station WiFi Ready Indoor/Outdoor Controller | TM2-8
Rain Bird ESP-ME3 4 Station WiFi Ready Indoor/Outdoor Controller | ESP-ME3-A1
Rain Bird RC2 Residential Connected 8 Station Controller | RC2-8
Computer
Rain Bird ST8I-2.0
Rain Bird ESP-TM2 (LNK WiFi required!)
Rain Bird ESP-ME3 (LNK WiFi required!)
Rain Bird RC2 (also offered as Arc8)
Zones
8
4, 6, 8 or 12
4, modularly expandable up to 22
4, 6 or 8
Indoor/Outdoor
Indoor + outdoor model available
Outdoor
Indoor + outdoor model available
Indoor + outdoor model available
Programs and start times
6 start times per zone
3 programs with 4 start times each
4 programs with 6 start times each
3 programs with 4 start times each
Price
$140.90
$129.25
$142.25
$125.62
Rain Bird ST8I-2.0 Smart Indoor WiFi Sprinkler/Irrigation System Timer/Controller, WaterSense Certified, 8-Zone/Station, Compatible with Amazon Alexa 8-Station Indoor Timer
Computer
Rain Bird ST8I-2.0
Zones
8
Indoor/Outdoor
Indoor + outdoor model available
Programs and start times
6 start times per zone
Price
$140.90
Rain Bird ESP-TM2 8 Station WiFi Ready Indoor/Outdoor Controller | TM2-8
Computer
Rain Bird ESP-TM2 (LNK WiFi required!)
Zones
4, 6, 8 or 12
Indoor/Outdoor
Outdoor
Programs and start times
3 programs with 4 start times each
Price
$129.25
Rain Bird ESP-ME3 4 Station WiFi Ready Indoor/Outdoor Controller | ESP-ME3-A1
Computer
Rain Bird ESP-ME3 (LNK WiFi required!)
Zones
4, modularly expandable up to 22
Indoor/Outdoor
Indoor + outdoor model available
Programs and start times
4 programs with 6 start times each
Price
$142.25
Rain Bird RC2 Residential Connected 8 Station Controller | RC2-8
Computer
Rain Bird RC2 (also offered as Arc8)
Zones
4, 6 or 8
Indoor/Outdoor
Indoor + outdoor model available
Programs and start times
3 programs with 4 start times each
Price
$125.62

Expansion module LNK WiFi at Amazon:

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Comparison of Hunter Pro-HC with Rain Bird ESP-TM2 including WiFi module

Package contents Hunter Pro-HC

In addition to the irrigation computer, the scope of delivery also includes mounting dowels, two keys to lock the computer and installation instructions.

Hunter Pro-HC with closed cover, installation instructions, mounting dowels and screws and key

When opened

Rear and side view with side cutouts for cable entry and mounting holes

Computer with open inner compartment containing the connections for the zones, sensors and the power connection

Package contents Rain Bird ESP-TM2

With the Rain Bird ESP-TM2, the scope of delivery also includes the irrigation computer, assembly material and installation instructions. The ESP-TM2 cannot be locked with a key, but a snap lock ensures that the lid cannot open accidentally.

Rain Bird ESP-TM2 in the closed state including installation instructions and mounting material

Rain Bird ESP-TM2 with the lid open

Back with mounting holes, bottom side there are two large passages for power and solenoid valve cables

After removing the inner cover, access to the zone connections, the power connection and the sensor connection becomes clear

In order to make the Rain Bird ESP-TM2 web-capable, this Rain Bird LNK WiFi module is also required

Putting into operation

Putting into operation of Hunter Pro-HC

To establish the power connection, the lid of the inner compartment must be removed from the hinges once in order to have enough space to remove the cover of the power connection. If the cover is removed, the cover of the power compartment can be removed after loosening the screw. There is a cable clamp to make the connection.

Hunter Pro-HC with the lid for the power compartment removed (on the right the detached lid of the inner compartment)

The computer automatically turns on as soon as it is connected to the power and starts the configuration menu. There you have the choice whether you want to configure the computer online or offline. It is also possible to program irrigation planning on the Hunter Pro HC without a web connection. However, only in a limited form and the programming is not particularly convenient, so this option will only be used in exceptional cases.

Connect to the web

In the next step, the computer automatically scans the area for available Wi-Fi networks. The networks found are available for selection. You can then select your own Wi-Fi and after entering your Wi-Fi access data, the connection is already established. This is very convenient and easy so far and can be done in less than 3 minutes. At the end of the process, a serial number is shown on the display, which you need to connect the device to the Hydrawise app.

The serial number issued at the end of the installation is needed in the next step

Download the app and connect it to the device

The Hydrawise app works on Android and Apple iOS devices and can be downloaded free of charge via Google Play or Apple App Store. Alternatively, access without an app via the web browser is also possible.

To use the app, you must register a Hydrawise account. When you start it for the first time, you will automatically be asked to enter your account’s user email and password. If you have not yet had anything to do with Hydrawise products and therefore do not have such an account, you must now create one. All you need to do is provide your name, email address and information about whether you are a specialist company or a private individual. The correctness of the email address must then be confirmed via an email sent and a password must be set. After logging in, you come to a setup assistant that asks you for the serial number that was previously displayed on the irrigation computer screen.

After entering the serial number, the app is ready to start. The setup assistant helps you with the first steps, alternatively you can also make the settings freely.

Enter the serial number

Putting into operation of Rain Bird ESP-TM2

To do this, the black cover of the power compartment must be removed so that the cable clamp underneath is accessible.

Rain Bird ESP-TM2 with power compartment cover removed

After establishing the power connection, the WiFi module must be plugged in:

After inserting the module, it begins to flash green and red alternately

After inserting the module, there are no further installation steps to be taken on the computer; the further steps are carried out via the app.

Download the app and connect it to the device

The Rain Bird app for Android and Apple iOS devices can be downloaded free of charge via Google Play and Apple App Store. Access via the web browser is not possible with Rain Bird.

After installing the app, the first step is to select the computer model that you want to operate with the app. In my case the Rain Bird ESP-TM2. Then briefly exit the app and select the Rain Bird network in the Wi-Fi settings of the mobile device. In order for this to be displayed there, the cell phone must be near the computer, the computer must be connected to power and the WiFi module must be inserted. The WiFi module must also flash green and red alternately. If it doesn’t, press the button on the module.

Now the app is opened again and in the next step it contacts the irrigation computer. To obtain automatic weather data, you must then enter the country and postal code in which you operate the irrigation and set a password to access the device. In the next step, the app shows the available WiFi networks. The home network must now be selected from these and the password required for access must be entered. This completes the setup of the app; a setup assistant like Hydrawise is not offered.

Entry of the W-LAN network via which access to the Internet is to take place

Comparison hardware

Below is a comparison of the hardware of the two irrigation computers:

Hunter Company Hydrawise Pro-HC 12-Station Indoor Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller (PHC-1200i)
Rain Bird ESP-TM2 8 Station WiFi Ready Indoor/Outdoor Controller | TM2-8
Computer
Hunter Pro-HC
Rain Bird ESP-TM2
Zones
6, 12 or 24
4, 6, 8 or 12
Indoor/Outdoor?
Indoor + outdoor model available
Outdoor
Connection option for sensors?
2 (can be used universally, with both normally open and normally closed sensors)
1 (for normally closed sensor)
Connection option for master valve/pump start circuit?
Control possible directly on the computer?
Yes, but limited to the basic functions
Yes, full functionality available
Lockable
Additional WiFi module required?
Yes - LNK WiFi module for around 80 to 90 USD
Additional gateway necessary?
Price
$399.00
$129.25
Hunter Company Hydrawise Pro-HC 12-Station Indoor Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller (PHC-1200i)
Computer
Hunter Pro-HC
Zones
6, 12 or 24
Indoor/Outdoor?
Indoor + outdoor model available
Connection option for sensors?
2 (can be used universally, with both normally open and normally closed sensors)
Connection option for master valve/pump start circuit?
Control possible directly on the computer?
Yes, but limited to the basic functions
Lockable
Additional WiFi module required?
Additional gateway necessary?
Price
$399.00
Rain Bird ESP-TM2 8 Station WiFi Ready Indoor/Outdoor Controller | TM2-8
Computer
Rain Bird ESP-TM2
Zones
4, 6, 8 or 12
Indoor/Outdoor?
Outdoor
Connection option for sensors?
1 (for normally closed sensor)
Connection option for master valve/pump start circuit?
Control possible directly on the computer?
Yes, full functionality available
Lockable
Additional WiFi module required?
Yes - LNK WiFi module for around 80 to 90 USD
Additional gateway necessary?
Price
$129.25

Case

The case of both computers makes a high-quality impression to me; the Hunter Pro-HC seems a little more stable in comparison. It also offers the option of locking the computer with a key, which can be particularly useful if it is installed in a publicly accessible place.

Number of zones

The Rain Bird ESP-TM2 has a maximum of 12 zones; with the Hunter Pro-HC, significantly more extensive irrigation solutions of up to 24 zones are also possible. In return, the Rain Bird ESP-TM2 is advantageous in that it not only offers a 6 and a 12 zone model, but also an 8 zone model in between. In my experience, it happens quite often that the 6 zone model is just too small, but a 12 zone model would be unnecessarily large, then the 8 zone model comes in handy.

Indoor/outdoor model

The Rain Bird ESP-TM2 is only available in an outdoor version; with the Hunter Pro-HC you can choose between a weatherproof version for outdoor use and a version for indoor use. As usual, the outdoor version costs a little more.

Connection option for sensors

The Hunter Pro-HC has a significant advantage here: It has outputs for not just one but two sensors and both outputs can be used with sensors that work according to the normally open principle as well as the normally closed principle. Which type you use is simply configured in the software. This means that a wide variety of sensors from numerous manufacturers are available for use. The Rain Bird ESP-TM2 can only be connected to a normally closed sensor.

Master valve/pump start circuit connection

Both computers have a separate output that can be used to switch a master valve or a pump. The output switches at the same time as the start of a zone, so that an upstream master valve opens at the same time or a few moments before and allows the water to pass through to the zone. And when the zone closes, it also closes again. This serves as additional protection should a zone not close properly. Or, alternatively, a pump is started when the zone starts, so that it starts and stops its service precisely for irrigation.

Monitoring proper valve wiring

Both computers warn in the event of defective cabling. In this regard, Hunter speaks of an integrated milliampere sensor, Rain Bird of automatic short-circuit detection.

Control/programming directly via the computer

Here the Rain Bird ESP-TM2 is ahead. You can also carry out all of the functions available via the app directly on your computer. And supported in a very comfortable way with a clear control wheel. With the Hunter Pro-HC, limited operation via the display is possible in offline mode, but many additional functions possible via the app are not available here.

Additional parts required to make the computer web-capable?

With the Hunter Pro-HC nothing additional is required, with the Rain Bird ESP-TM2 you need the additional LNK WiFi module, which costs around 80 to 90 USD. This fact must be taken into account when comparing prices. Both computers do not require an additional gateway to access the Internet; the connection is made directly to the WiFi.

Comparison software:
Hunter Hydrawise vs Rain Bird Smart Watering System

Following is a software comparison of the Hunter Hydrawise and Rain Bird Smart Watering System systems used to control the computers.

You can read a detailed introduction of the extensive functions and setting options of the two systems in the following two articles:

Blog post: How Hunter Hydrawise works
Blog post: How the Rain Bird Smart Watering System works

In principle, it should be said in advance that the systems function according to very different basic principles:

The Rain Bird software only allows what is possible with direct input via the computer. Therefore, depending on which Rain Bird computer model you use, the software may also contain different functionalities or the number of programs and start times or the maximum possible running time may be different. For example, with a Rain Bird ESP-TM2, 3 programs with 4 start times each are possible, but with a Rain Bird ESP-ME, 4 programs with 6 start times each. Although the same software is used, not every model can use the maximum possible number allowed by the software, but the limitations of the purchased hardware remain.

With Hunter Hydrawise, however, there is a strict separation between hardware and software and all computer models can always use the full Hydrawise functionality. Regardless of which computer model you use, for example, 6 programs with 6 start times each can be used and a maximum running time of 24 hours can be defined (the only exception is Hunter Wand: only 3 programs with 4 start times). All models also benefit equally from functional expansions through future updates. The only limitations with Hydrawise are the structural conditions of the hardware. For example, if the computer model only has one built-in sensor output, then logically only one sensor can be used in the software.

Hunter Company Hydrawise Pro-HC 12-Station Indoor Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller (PHC-1200i)
Rain Bird ESP-TM2 8 Station WiFi Ready Indoor/Outdoor Controller | TM2-8
Computer
Hunter Pro-HC
Rain Bird ESP-TM2
Software system
Hunter Hydrawise
Rain Bird Smart Watering System
App runs on
Apple iOS devices, Google Android devices
Apple iOS devices, Google Android devices
Accessible via web browser?
Setup wizard for initial setup?start circuit?
Type of programming
Optionally on a program basis or on a zone basis
On a program basis
Programs
6
3
Start times
6
4
Watering duration
1 to 1,440 minutes (24 hours)
1 to 360 minutes
Types of irrigation
Time-dependent irrigation plan or Smart (ET) schedule (system decides independently when to water) or Virtual Solar Sync (system independently adjusts the duration of the irrigation runs)
Time-dependent irrigation plan or automatic seasonal adjustment (system automatically adjusts the duration of the irrigation runs
Definition of irrigation templates?
Local access without an internet connection?
Give access to other users?
Assigning different user authorizations?
Yes - only reading or also writing (writing allows you to change settings)
Additional functions for contractors?
Warning notifications?
Irrigation calendar?
Reports on irrigation, water consumption, weather, ...?
Connection of a flow meter?
Hunter Company Hydrawise Pro-HC 12-Station Indoor Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller (PHC-1200i)
Computer
Hunter Pro-HC
Software system
Hunter Hydrawise
App runs on
Apple iOS devices, Google Android devices
Accessible via web browser?
Setup wizard for initial setup?start circuit?
Type of programming
Optionally on a program basis or on a zone basis
Programs
6
Start times
6
Watering duration
1 to 1,440 minutes (24 hours)
Types of irrigation
Time-dependent irrigation plan or Smart (ET) schedule (system decides independently when to water) or Virtual Solar Sync (system independently adjusts the duration of the irrigation runs)
Definition of irrigation templates?
Local access without an internet connection?
Give access to other users?
Assigning different user authorizations?
Yes - only reading or also writing (writing allows you to change settings)
Additional functions for contractors?
Warning notifications?
Irrigation calendar?
Reports on irrigation, water consumption, weather, ...?
Connection of a flow meter?
Rain Bird ESP-TM2 8 Station WiFi Ready Indoor/Outdoor Controller | TM2-8
Computer
Rain Bird ESP-TM2
Software system
Rain Bird Smart Watering System
App runs on
Apple iOS devices, Google Android devices
Accessible via web browser?
Setup wizard for initial setup?start circuit?
Type of programming
On a program basis
Programs
3
Start times
4
Watering duration
1 to 360 minutes
Types of irrigation
Time-dependent irrigation plan or automatic seasonal adjustment (system automatically adjusts the duration of the irrigation runs
Definition of irrigation templates?
Local access without an internet connection?
Give access to other users?
Assigning different user authorizations?
Additional functions for contractors?
Warning notifications?
Irrigation calendar?
Reports on irrigation, water consumption, weather, ...?
Connection of a flow meter?

Continuation

Hunter Company Hydrawise Pro-HC 12-Station Indoor Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller (PHC-1200i)
Rain Bird ESP-TM2 8 Station WiFi Ready Indoor/Outdoor Controller | TM2-8
Computer
Hunter Pro-HC
Rain Bird ESP-TM2
Define irrigation triggers?
Yes, with "Predictive Watering" watering can be controlled using 8 tailored rules (skipping watering runs, length of watering)
No, active control is not possible. If you select the “Automatic seasonal adjustment” option, the system automatically adjusts the irrigation runtime.
Using local weather data?
Weather station selectable?
Updating weather data
Every night - with a paid upgrade to the Enthusiast plan, also before each watering run
Each night
Integration of your own weather station possible?
By default no, only when upgrading to Enthusiast plan
Seasonal adjustment definable per month?
Suspend watering x days?
Cycle and soak phases?
Lawn growth program?
Start watering run manually?
Define a sensor yourself?
Valve delays definable?
Voice control with
Amazon Alexa
Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant
Ongoing costs?
None - Optional upgrade to paid Enthusiast plan with additional features available (cost 66 USD/year)
None
Hunter Company Hydrawise Pro-HC 12-Station Indoor Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller (PHC-1200i)
Computer
Hunter Pro-HC
Define irrigation triggers?
Yes, with "Predictive Watering" watering can be controlled using 8 tailored rules (skipping watering runs, length of watering)
Using local weather data?
Weather station selectable?
Updating weather data
Every night - with a paid upgrade to the Enthusiast plan, also before each watering run
Integration of your own weather station possible?
By default no, only when upgrading to Enthusiast plan
Seasonal adjustment definable per month?
Suspend watering x days?
Cycle and soak phases?
Lawn growth program?
Start watering run manually?
Define a sensor yourself?
Valve delays definable?
Voice control with
Amazon Alexa
Ongoing costs?
None - Optional upgrade to paid Enthusiast plan with additional features available (cost 66 USD/year)
Rain Bird ESP-TM2 8 Station WiFi Ready Indoor/Outdoor Controller | TM2-8
Computer
Rain Bird ESP-TM2
Define irrigation triggers?
No, active control is not possible. If you select the “Automatic seasonal adjustment” option, the system automatically adjusts the irrigation runtime.
Using local weather data?
Weather station selectable?
Updating weather data
Each night
Integration of your own weather station possible?
Seasonal adjustment definable per month?
Suspend watering x days?
Cycle and soak phases?
Lawn growth program?
Start watering run manually?
Define a sensor yourself?
Valve delays definable?
Voice control with
Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant
Ongoing costs?
None

Below are further details on some of the points mentioned:

Accessibility/synchronization

Both systems can be accessed via the app on Google and Apple devices; Hunter Hydrawise can also be accessed from ordinary desktop computers in the web browser. This is a small advantage, especially when setting up at the beginning, because it is a little clearer and is also a little quicker with a mouse and large keyboard. With Rain Bird, it can also be a problem if you lose your cell phone that is running the Rain Bird app, as there is no synchronization with a website and the data is therefore lost in this case. Hunter Hydrawise, on the other hand, automatically synchronizes with the cloud.

Programming methods

At Rain Bird, irrigation runs are created in the classic way, on a program basis. With Hydrawise you can choose between program-based programming and zone-based programming, which will satisfy fans of both options.

Programs/start times/watering duration

Hunter Hydrawise is clearly ahead here, allowing for more programs, more start times and a much longer watering duration. That’s nice, but in practice 99% of users will probably be able to cope with the programs, start times and watering duration of the Rain Bird ESP-TM2 without any problems. These three things usually do not represent a bottleneck and are more than generous.

Different watering modes

With both systems you can define fixed irrigation times (time-dependent irrigation plan); both Hunter Hydrawise and Rain Bird Smart Watering System also offer the option of having the system automatically adjust the irrigation duration depending on the projected evaporation. With Hunter this happens in Virtual Solar Sync mode, with Rain Bird by activating the “Automatic Seasonal Adjustment” option. Hunter offers a third option with the Smart (ET) mode: In this mode, the system automatically adjusts which days the irrigation takes place, but the irrigation duration is not changed.

With Rain Bird, if the “automatic seasonal adjustment” option is not selected, the time-dependent irrigation plan takes place completely without automated adjustment of the irrigation. With Hunter, you can create numerous automated rules in this mode using predictive watering.

Use of irrigation templates

Hydrawise makes it possible to create templates to carry out irrigation runs. This saves you from having to enter things that you have already considered a second time in the same way and instead you can use them again and again. If you work with a professional contractor, it is even possible for them to provide you with their finished templates in the software.

Local access to irrigation computers

Alternatively, on both computers it is also possible to access the computer using the app without an existing internet connection. This works with Bluetooth with Hydrawise and with a hotspot with Rain Bird Smart Watering. In both variants, the user must be in close proximity to the watering computer with their cell phone.

Granting access to other users

Both systems make it possible to give additional users access to the irrigation system. This can be very practical if several family members need to access it, or if you delegate supervision to someone on site while on vacation. Hunter Hydrawise conveniently offers the option of providing read-only access. In such a case, only existing programs or manual irrigation runs can be executed, but nothing can be changed in the programming of the system. Alternatively, you can grant full access. There is no such distinction with Rain Bird, but it is possible to grant access for a limited period of time to just one or two days.

Alert notifications

In the Rain Bird system 8 different warnings can be activated, in Hunter there are 9, although some are only possible under certain conditions. The warning messages are sent directly to the cell phone via push notification,

Flow meter

A few very important warning notifications are based on measurements from an optionally connectable flow meter. Based on deviations in water consumption, this detects when there is a leak and gives an alarm. The flow meter can be connected to one of the two sensor outputs on the Hunter Pro-HC and is defined in the Hydrawise software. The Rain Bird Smart Watering System does not provide for the use of a flow meter.

Use of weather data

Local weather data is used in both systems. Where this data comes from, how it is processed, what exactly was measured, etc. remains unclear at Rain Bird, but at Hunter the weather service and weather station used are transparent. The weather station used can also be influenced up to a certain point. If you upgrade to the paid Enthusiast plan, you can even select 5 weather stations and, if necessary, also integrate your own weather station. In addition, with Predictive Watering, Hunter Hydrawise allows you to use weather data tailored to your needs with rules to control irrigation according to your own ideas. The measured amount of rain over the last few days, the forecast amount of rain for the next few days as well as the forecast temperature, humidity and wind speed for the next few days are available. Based on these rules, irrigation runs can be completely suspended, their length changed or additional irrigation runs can be inserted.

The weather data for both systems is updated at night so that current weather data is available for the irrigation planned for the next day.

Define seasonal adjustment (per month).

With the Rain Bird Smart Watering System, a factor for seasonal adjustment can be defined globally, e.g. 80%. In this case, the irrigation runs would only last 80% of the programmed time. However, this deposit is only possible if you do not let the system do the seasonal adjustment automatically and you can only store one factor at a time and not define different factors for different months of the year.

With Hunter Hydrawise you can use seasonal adjustment in addition to all the other features of the program. You can define various predictive watering rules and then also inform the system that the result of these rules would be fully applicable in the hottest month and in another colder month, for example, only 70% of the time should be watered. An adjustment factor can be stored for each month from January to December.

Suspend watering x days

This plays a larger role with Rain Bird, as there is no programming option to completely eliminate irrigation runs; they are always only adjusted in length. But if it’s just pouring rain, it can make a lot of sense not to water at all. The only way to do this with Rain Bird is to actively set a time out.

This is also possible with Hunter, but will not normally be needed in daily use, as the rules can be defined in such a way that weather-related outages are carried out automatically. However, the option can be useful in other cases, for example if the garden is being dug up and you would like to suspend watering.

Cycle and soak phases

If the soil to be irrigated is particularly dense, it may not be able to absorb the water as quickly as it is watered. Some of the water then runs away unused. To avoid this, there is the option of dividing the irrigation run into irrigation phases and soak phases. Instead of watering for an hour at a time, for example, you water for 20 minutes at a time and leave a 10-minute break in between. The same applies to steeply sloping terrain. Hunter Hydrawise has included this option; with the Rain Bird Smart Watering System this is only available on certain more expensive computer models; it is not available in conjunction with the Rain Bird ESP-Tm2.

Lawn Growing Program

Hunter Hydrawise includes its own lawn growing program. This is simply a program whose first and last execution can be timed, which makes it very suitable for watering the newly planted lawn particularly intensively for a while.

Add sensor type

Hunter Hydrawise allows you to configure the available sensor ports as desired so that all possible types of sensors can be used on them. Both sensors based on the normally open principle and sensors based on the normally closed principle. When adding a water flow meter, the pulse value of the device can be defined.

Define valve delays

When using a main valve, Hydrawise allows you to set a small delay between opening the main valve and opening the zone valve. A delay between closing one zone and opening the next zone can also be defined. This can be useful in certain technical constellations in order to build up the required pressure in a timely manner.

Ongoing costs

The use of the software is free with both providers. With Hydrawise there is the option of upgrading to the paid Enthusiast plan, but this is not a must, the software also works very well in the normal version and is very comprehensive.

Conclusion and recommendation

In terms of hardware, the two computers are more or less equal. The only significant difference here is the additional second sensor connection on the Hunter Pro-HC if you plan to work with several sensors or use a flow meter. And if you want to implement very extensive irrigation, then the higher number of possible sectors with Pro-HC could play a role. In this case, you can alternatively consider one of the more expensive Rain Bird computers that also meet these criteria. Structurally, both computers make a flawless, very stable and well-made impression.

In terms of price, the Rain Bird ESP-TM2 is the cheaper choice. Although you still have to add the costs for the additional WiFi module to the pure computer price, it is still around 100 USD less than the price of the Hunter Pro-HC.

Commissioning both computers for the first time is very easy and can be completed in just a few minutes. With the Pro-HC it’s a bit quicker and easier than with the Rain Bird, but I wouldn’t say there’s a significant difference here.

The really big difference and the criterion that, in my opinion, you should primarily consider when buying is the software: The Hydrawise system from Hunter is a very innovative product that has completely rethought smart irrigation. The Rain Bird Smart Watering System, on the other hand, is a further development based on what already exists. This difference is clearly noticeable during use.

The Rain Bird System primarily offers a way for private users to remotely operate their irrigation computer from anywhere in the world. It works simply and well and is the right choice if that’s enough for you and you want to spend as little time with the system as possible. Although automation using web weather data is also on board, you can hardly set anything with it and you cannot transparently understand how it works. The optimization options here are therefore very limited.

In comparison, Hydrawise is a very large and powerful system that is aimed at private users and professionals and gives you really extensive setting options. The whole thing seems well thought out and there are sensible and usable options available to tailor the irrigation, i.e. to optimally supply the garden with water and at the same time only use as much water as is necessary. This can be controlled very well by using parameters such as rainfall, wind speed, humidity and temperature and using rules to cancel irrigation runs in certain constellations or change their duration. Hydrawise is the right choice for those who want to get the most out of their irrigation and also want to adjust details exactly how they want. You don’t have to be afraid that the system will overwhelm you. An assistant helps with the initial setup and the system is intelligently structured in layers so that the essentials can be done quickly and the fine-tuning can then be carried out little by little.

Conclusion: For me, as someone who is interested in exactly these optimization options, the Hunter Pro-HC is clearly the winner in the comparison. It is simply the much more ambitious product and looks like the next generation model in comparison. What also really bothers me about the Rain Bird Smart Watering System is that some software options are only available in more expensive models. This seems like a very antiquated approach to not ruining your own business and also means that you can only benefit to a very limited extent from future improvements through updates. I would only recommend the Rain Bird System for someone who is simply looking for a simple, well-functioning remote control option for their irrigation computer, for example to be able to control the irrigation while on vacation and doesn’t want to pay unnecessarily much for it.

Der Beitrag In the test: Hunter Pro HC Hydrawise vs. Rain Bird ESP-TM2 with LNK WiFi module erschien zuerst auf Irrigation Blog for Do-it-yourselfer.

]]> How the Rain Bird Smart Watering System works (Rain Bird LNK WiFi) https://www.irrigation-guide.com/how-the-rain-bird-smart-watering-system-works-rain-bird-lnk-wifi.html Fri, 01 Dec 2023 13:44:01 +0000 https://www.irrigation-guide.com/?p=2267 This article introduces the features of the Rain Bird Smart Watering System used in web-enabled Rain Bird computers. This allows access to the irrigation computer from anywhere in the world and is used on the one hand when using a Rain Bird RC2, ESP-RZX, ESP-TM2, ESP-ME or ESP-ME3 irrigation computer in combination with a [...]

Der Beitrag How the Rain Bird Smart Watering System works (Rain Bird LNK WiFi) erschien zuerst auf Irrigation Blog for Do-it-yourselfer.

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This article introduces the features of the Rain Bird Smart Watering System used in web-enabled Rain Bird computers. This allows access to the irrigation computer from anywhere in the world and is used on the one hand when using a Rain Bird RC2, ESP-RZX, ESP-TM2, ESP-ME or ESP-ME3 irrigation computer in combination with a Rain Bird LNK WiFi module and on the other hand when using a Rain Bird ST8 computer, which is delivered web-capable from the factory.

The Rain Bird Smart Watering software used is always the same regardless of the computer model. What this allows in terms of zones, programs and start times and sometimes also functions depends on the capabilities of the hardware used, i.e. the irrigation computer. The reason for this is that the Rain Bird software works on the principle that everything that is possible via the app should also be possible when entered directly on the irrigation computer.

For this purpose, changes made to the app are always transferred 1 to 1 to the irrigation computer and, conversely, changes made to the irrigation computer are synchronized with the app. This principle has advantages, but also has the disadvantage that only as many programs and start times can be created via the app as would be possible if programmed directly via the computer and that additional functions such as setting up cycle and soak phases, i.e. small breaks during irrigation runs to allow the water to seep away, are sometimes only possible with newer Rain Bird models. This is not possible for the Rain Bird ESP-TM2, for example. So you are artificially restricted in the software when using cheaper Rain Bird models, even though the software could actually do more. How many zones can be programmed also depends on how many are possible in terms of hardware, but this is clear since you have to wire them to the irrigation computer.

Rain Bird smart watering computers

Below is a brief overview of the web-enabled Rain Bird irrigation computers available on the market:

Rain Bird ST8I-2.0 Smart Indoor WiFi Sprinkler/Irrigation System Timer/Controller, WaterSense Certified, 8-Zone/Station, Compatible with Amazon Alexa 8-Station Indoor Timer
Rain Bird ESP-TM2 8 Station WiFi Ready Indoor/Outdoor Controller | TM2-8
Rain Bird ESP-ME3 4 Station WiFi Ready Indoor/Outdoor Controller | ESP-ME3-A1
Rain Bird RC2 Residential Connected 8 Station Controller | RC2-8
Computer
Rain Bird ST8I-2.0
Rain Bird ESP-TM2 (LNK WiFi required!)
Rain Bird ESP-ME3 (LNK WiFi required!)
Rain Bird RC2 (also offered as Arc8)
Zones
8
4, 6, 8 or 12
4, modularly expandable up to 22
4, 6 or 8
Indoor/Outdoor
Indoor + outdoor model available
Outdoor
Indoor + outdoor model available
Indoor + outdoor model available
Programs and start times
6 start times per zone
3 programs with 4 start times each
4 programs with 6 start times each
3 programs with 4 start times each
Price
$140.90
$129.25
$142.25
$125.62
Rain Bird ST8I-2.0 Smart Indoor WiFi Sprinkler/Irrigation System Timer/Controller, WaterSense Certified, 8-Zone/Station, Compatible with Amazon Alexa 8-Station Indoor Timer
Computer
Rain Bird ST8I-2.0
Zones
8
Indoor/Outdoor
Indoor + outdoor model available
Programs and start times
6 start times per zone
Price
$140.90
Rain Bird ESP-TM2 8 Station WiFi Ready Indoor/Outdoor Controller | TM2-8
Computer
Rain Bird ESP-TM2 (LNK WiFi required!)
Zones
4, 6, 8 or 12
Indoor/Outdoor
Outdoor
Programs and start times
3 programs with 4 start times each
Price
$129.25
Rain Bird ESP-ME3 4 Station WiFi Ready Indoor/Outdoor Controller | ESP-ME3-A1
Computer
Rain Bird ESP-ME3 (LNK WiFi required!)
Zones
4, modularly expandable up to 22
Indoor/Outdoor
Indoor + outdoor model available
Programs and start times
4 programs with 6 start times each
Price
$142.25
Rain Bird RC2 Residential Connected 8 Station Controller | RC2-8
Computer
Rain Bird RC2 (also offered as Arc8)
Zones
4, 6 or 8
Indoor/Outdoor
Indoor + outdoor model available
Programs and start times
3 programs with 4 start times each
Price
$125.62

In addition, the following module is required for all models except the Rain Bird ST8 and the Rain Bird RC2 to make the computers web-enabled:

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In the following article I will describe the functions of the Rain Bird Smart Watering System, take a look at the voice control options and end my article with a description of my personal impression and my recommendation of the Rain Bird Smart Watering System.

Navigation and menu items of the app

First, a quick overview of how navigation works in the Rain Bird app. This goes over several menu levels and some functions are hidden behind links built into the content area. At the beginning you can miss one or two things or ask yourself where a function you are looking for is hidden. But since the functionality isn’t extremely extensive, you’ll soon find your way around it.

When you start the app, you will be shown a home page with the Rain Bird irrigation computers stored in the app. For most users, this will only be one computer, as in the example shown, but theoretically there could be several stored here and you could operate several control devices from here.

From the home page you have the following options:

  • Pencil icon: Switch to the main menu of the watering computer
  • Drop icon: Start a manual watering run
  • Email icon: Give someone else access to the water computer
  • Trash can icon: Delete the irrigation computer from the software
  • Gear icon: View/change app settings

Rain Bird Smart Watering home page menu items

Irrigation computer main menu

After switching to the main menu of the irrigation computer, essential information about irrigation is displayed:

  • Information about an irrigation that is currently running
  • Information about today’s weather (daily low and daily high) – When you click on the “5-day forecast” link, the weather forecast for the next 5 days is displayed
  • Information about irrigation programs that have been created (name of the program, information about when the program will next run)
  • Signal strength of the watering computer’s Wi-Fi connection (after clicking on the radio signal symbol)

Watering computer main menu

The following options are available in the green control bar in the footer area:

  • Plus/minus icon: Manage zones
  • Calendar icon: View planned and past irrigation runs on the calendar
  • Water drop icon: Add program
  • Rain cloud icon: Suspend watering
  • Gear icon: Change control unit settings

I will then describe all the functionalities contained in the menus.

Start watering run manually

In this mask, spontaneous watering can be carried out apart from programmed watering runs. There are three options to choose from:

1. Set a watering time for all zones

For example, if you enter 20 minutes here and have 6 zones, then these will be run through one after the other with a running time of 20 minutes each.

2. Execution of an existing program

A predefined watering program is started manually immediately. You can choose from all created programs.

3. Set watering times for desired zones

A watering time is entered for all zones that are to be watered. After the start, the zones are run through one after the other with the defined time.

Mask with the 3 manual watering options

Grant access to other users

Under this menu item you can give other users app access to your irrigation computer, e.g. other family members or someone who should temporarily take care of the irrigation. You can decide whether access should be permanent or limited to 24 or 48 hours. The invitation can be sent via email, WhatsApp, messages, etc. The invitee will then receive a message with precise instructions on what steps it needs to take to gain access (download the Rain Bird app, open the RBCF file attached to the message).

Set up and manage zones

Under this menu item, zones can be activated and named with a zone name. Depending on the irrigation computer model, there are different numbers of zones to choose from.

In the example, 6 zones are named and set to active (= wired)

Create programs

By clicking on the add program button you will be taken to the following mask in which the program can be created:

Setting up an irrigation program

The individual input options are briefly explained below:

  • A name for the program is defined at the top. This should be as descriptive as possible so that it is clear from the name what the program is used for. In my case, I use this program to water a strip of newly laid lawn.
  • The frequency of watering is determined below. You can either set specific days under “custom”, for example Monday and Thursday, or you can define that watering takes place on every even or odd day. If you choose “cyclic”, you can determine the daily intervals at which watering should take place within a range of 1 to 31 days. A daily cycle of 1 means that watering takes place every day, a daily cycle of 2 means that watering occurs every other day, etc. etc. In addition, the remaining days can be defined: 0 remaining days means that watering will begin today, 1 day remaining means the cycle will not start until the next day. Up to 31 days are also possible here.
  • Under Seasonal Adjustment it is possible to increase or reduce the irrigation runtime by a certain percentage. This setting is usually used to compensate for the different water requirements in different warm months of the year. The duration is set for the hottest month, e.g. July, and in less warm months this can be reduced globally. For example, if you have set 50 minutes and set 80% under “Seasonal Adjustment”, then the zones would not be watered for 50 minutes, but only for 40 minutes. If this is followed by an even less warm month, you can go down to 75% and so on and so forth.
  • The alternative is to activate Automatic Seasonal Adjustment. In this case, the system automatically performs the seasonal adjustment based on the online weather data transmitted every night, from which the evapotranspiration (based on evaporation) is extrapolated. For this purpose, the weather data from the last few days and the weather forecasts for the coming days are used. Rain Bird does not disclose the exact logic used here.
  • Despite extensive testing, I was unable to figure out the function of the soil type; changing it had no effect on me in the test. Web searches didn’t provide any information about this either. There may currently be an error in the software or the function has not yet been fully developed. It is possible that this setting affects the automatic seasonal adjustment, as the rate of evaporation also depends on the soil type.
  • Four or more start times can be set depending on the computer model.
  • The watering time can be set for each zone independently. The zones are passed through in the order listed. All activated zones are always listed here; those that you do not want to take into account in the program can simply be left at a running time of 0 minutes.
  • What is not available in the screenshot shown is a way to divide the watering time of the zones into cycle and soak phases. This doesn’t work with the Rain Bird ESP-TM2 I used for this article, but it is possible with other Rain Bird models. The irrigation time can then be divided into irrigation phases and soak phases for each zone, so that the water has more time to seep away (advantageous on dense soil and sloping terrain).

Once the program has been created, it is displayed on the irrigation computer start screen. A symbolic image for the garden is automatically added, which you can replace with an image of your own garden. The program shows when it will next be executed and whether the runtime will be adjusted.

Display of the program on the main page of the watering computer. In this case, an adjustment of the running time to 70% of the originally stored time is predicted for both programs displayed.

Delay watering

With this function you can pause watering for a certain number of days. This can make sense because seasonal adjustment only reduces the running time of irrigation, but never completely stops it. But if it rained very heavily beforehand, that could be exactly what makes sense. A suspension of up to 14 days is possible.

Watering is suspended for 4 days

View planned and completed irrigation runs in the calendar

By default, the calendar opens in a monthly overview and today’s irrigation runs are displayed below. All days on which irrigation runs are planned or have already taken place are marked with a green dot. You can optionally switch to a weekly overview. Irrigation runs that have already taken place can be looked up for the current month and the month before, and planned irrigation runs can be called up for the current and the coming month.

Irrigation calendar overview for the month of November

Enable alerts

In the “Notifications” menu item in the Controller Settings menu you can define which events you would like to be actively informed about. The message is sent via a push notification on the mobile phone. Currently, notifications can be activated for eight different events:

  • Watering run has been completed (message contains the duration of the watering process and the time at which it was completed)
  • An automatic seasonal adjustment was applied to the irrigation, so watering was carried out for a shorter period of time than originally set in the program
  • An irrigation was postponed by x days (this message primarily makes sense if multiple users have access to the control)
  • There is a risk of frost as the lowest temperature of the day is below 35 degrees Fahrenheit
  • A short circuit was detected in the solenoid coil of a connected valve
  • The irrigation computer was accessed locally in AP/Hotspot mode
  • The date or time stored on the irrigation computer appears to be incorrect
  • The WiFi module restarted or the irrigation computer lost power

Note: In order for the activated notifications to be delivered, the “Push notifications” option must also be activated in the app settings

“Notifications” menu item in the controller settings

Get weather forecast

The weather used for automatic seasonal adjustment can be viewed on the irrigation computer’s overview page.

Activate rain sensor

A rain sensor used with the irrigation computer can be activated in the “Controller info” menu item in the Controller settings menu. Since the automatic adjustment based on the weather data obtained online only influences the duration of the irrigation, an additional rain sensor is the only way to automatically eliminate irrigation completely due to the weather. The rain sensor sends a signal when the defined amount of rain has been exceeded, thereby blocking planned irrigation runs.

Activation of a rain sensor

Change computer and app settings

In addition to the options already described in the points above, a few additional settings can be made in the app settings and watering computer settings:

  • The location can be changed, e.g. after moving house. The location is crucial for obtaining local weather values
  • The temperature and water flow measurement units used in the program can be changed to those used in your own country
  • Date and time can be changed
  • The password stored in the app can be changed
  • The watering computer can be given a different name
  • The WLAN settings can be changed if, for example, the router has been replaced
  • Alternatively, you can switch to hotspot mode in the WiFi settings so that access to the irrigation computer from your cell phone is possible even without an existing WiFi connection. To do this, you have to be in close proximity to the computer with your cell phone.
  • As already described in the points above, push notifications or a rain sensor can be activated/deactivated

Voice control options

Rain Bird offers a connection to Google Home and Amazon Alexa, so that it is possible to control the irrigation computer via voice control, i.e. start or end irrigation runs and query information about irrigation.

Conclusion and recommendation

With its LNK WiFi module, Rain Bird offers a very simple solution to make your Rain Bird irrigation computer web-enabled. This can be done right away when purchasing or later, so it also has the advantage that as a buyer you can first buy the cheaper and simpler solution and upgrade it later.

Putting the LNK WiFi module into operation is quite easy and can be done in just a few minutes. The software itself is quite manageable. This can be seen both positively and negatively. Positive: You find your way around very quickly and need little background information to use the application. With the software, Rain Bird primarily provides a way to remotely control the irrigation computer from anywhere in the world. This works well and easily and may probably be absolutely sufficient for many users; overall, the module is rated quite positively on Amazon. The fact that you can switch back to normal control directly via the irrigation computer at any time is of course not a disadvantage, although I can hardly imagine that anyone will do that. You quickly get used to the convenience of using the app.

The negative aspect is that the Rain Bird Smart Watering System is little more than a very smart remote control. Although automatic seasonal adjustment based on online weather data would be a very smart and intelligent function on paper, Rain Bird implements this in a very non-transparent manner with no adjustment options for the customer. So you neither know what criteria Rain Bird uses to calculate the adjustment factor in the background, nor can you influence it if it doesn’t work properly. The automatic seasonal adjustment can only shorten an irrigation run, but not cancel it completely, which is disadvantageous in some situations. In order to function very well, you are more or less forced to use an additional rain sensor.

The system works reasonably well in practice, although in a few isolated cases I experienced slight interruptions in the connection, meaning that I needed several attempts to access the computer. Irrigations are carried out correctly and defined push messages arrive correctly on the cell phone. The adjustment factor of the automatic seasonal adjustment was always unexpectedly reserved in my tests over several weeks, even when the weather was sometimes rather cool. That surprised me; I would have seen even more potential for savings here.

Conclusion: The Rain Bird System is a good system if you are primarily looking for a way to remotely control the irrigation computer from anywhere in the world and to program it and access information conveniently via your cell phone. The additional costs to make the computer web-enabled are manageable at 80 to 90 USD and you will quickly find your way around the system. However, if you want a web-enabled irrigation computer with the ulterior motive of optimally adapting irrigation to your own requirements based on a wide variety of weather factors and saving as much water as possible, then there are better systems. Compared to Hunter Hydrawise, for example, Rain Bird simply allows the user far too little customization and is far too opaque in its functionality. If you are looking for such a system, you will not have much fun with the Rain Bird System.

Der Beitrag How the Rain Bird Smart Watering System works (Rain Bird LNK WiFi) erschien zuerst auf Irrigation Blog for Do-it-yourselfer.

]]> Ways to monitor and secure an irrigation system https://www.irrigation-guide.com/ways-to-monitor-and-secure-an-irrigation-system.html Sat, 22 Apr 2023 20:08:28 +0000 https://www.irrigation-guide.com/?p=1677 There are also certain risks associated with the operation of an automatic irrigation system. Here you can find out what these are, how relevant they are for your own situation and which methods you can use to secure them. It's easy to overlook this at first glance, but automatic irrigation also harbors two major [...]

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There are also certain risks associated with the operation of an automatic irrigation system. Here you can find out what these are, how relevant they are for your own situation and which methods you can use to secure them.

It’s easy to overlook this at first glance, but automatic irrigation also harbors two major risks:

  • Irrigation does not stop as soon as it should and continues uncontrolled
  • The irrigation should be watering, but it isn’t

Especially the first point can lead to big problems.

Irrigation continues uncontrolled

Automatic irrigation is usually initiated and ended by a valve that opens and later closes again. If there is a defect in the valve so that it no longer closes or no longer closes properly, the irrigation continues.

If the water is drawn from a public network, this can lead to a very high water bill if you only notice the error late, for example because you are on vacation or do not visit the area to be irrigated regularly. Pumping water from a well only incurs the additional cost of electricity, but of course you may be wasting many thousands of liters of water.

Even more dangerous and expensive the effects of uncontrolled water leakage can be: At some point, the ground can no longer absorb any more water and, in the worst case, this will run into the basement, under the terrace, on to the neighbors or flush out paths or undermine foundations. That can get really expensive.

Irrigation is not carried out

This can also happen due to a defective valve that does not open as planned and therefore does not let water through. Or a failure of the irrigation computer, problems with the pump or a pressure switch, faulty sensors or a manual valve that was closed by mistake.

This damages lawns and plants in the garden that do not receive a scheduled supply of water. If the error is not noticed for a long time and the weather is unfavorable, then plants can, in the worst case, die completely or suffer permanent damage.

How high you rate both dangers, I would make dependent on the conditions in your own garden: If you pump water with a pump, the garden does not border directly on the house and neighboring gardens or there is not much in the garden that can be damaged, and you pass the garden every day and never go on vacation, then you can probably do without an additional safety net.
If, as the opposite extreme example, you use public water in the garden, if you have expensive plants and furniture in the garden, if the garden is located in such a way that large amounts of water flowing away would cause considerable damage, or if you are often not on site for weeks, then protection would be strongly recommended.

Both the risk of uncontrolled water leakage and the risk of watering runs being skipped can be controlled with manageable effort. There are different possible solutions to this.

Using a master valve

A master valve, or sometimes called a main valve, is an additional electronic solenoid valve that is placed next to the point where the irrigation system is connected to the water supply. Whether this is before or after a check valve or pressure reducer is a matter of taste, the only important thing is that the master valve is installed in the pipeline before the sector valves. These are the solenoid valves that open or close on command from the irrigation computer when a specific sector is to be irrigated.

The master valve is always closed in the initial state and is only opened as soon as a sector valve is also opened. This parallel switching takes place fully automatically via the irrigation controller. The prerequisite for this is an irrigation computer that supports the use of a master valve. Such computers either have their own additional master output to which the master valve can be connected, or one of the normal sector outputs can be defined as the master output. All Hunter, Rain Bird and Orbit computers support the use of a master valve, also the Gardena Smart Irrigation Control and the OpenSprinkler can use a master valve. A master valve is not supported on water tap controllers, i.e. sprinkler timers with a built-in valve through which the water flows.

In order to use a master valve, the master valve function only has to be activated once on the computer and the master output is then automatically activated at the start of each sector.

Any normal solenoid valve can be used as a master valve. Since it is installed in the area that is constantly under pressure, it has the highest requirements of all the solenoid valves used in the irrigation system.

The master valve is placed in the irrigation system before the sector valves

Pros & Cons Master valve

Advantages:

  • Prevents the irrigation from continuing uncontrolled if a sector valve does not close (since the master valve does not let water through)
  • Also minimizes the negative effect of slight leaks in the pipeline, since water can only flow out during the irrigation times (otherwise the master valve does not let water through)

Disadvantages:

  • Because the master valve limits the effects of leaks in the system to the time while irrigation is running, you may notice such leaks later than it would otherwise have been the case
  • Additional costs for a solenoid valve
  • Small additional pressure drop

Pump control

A pump control can be used as an alternative to a master valve. As described above, you need an irrigation controller that supports a master valve. In this case, instead of connecting the master output to a valve, it is connected to a pump controller (a pump start relay (Amazon Link)) to switch a connected pump on and off. The functionality and the advantages and disadvantages are the same as previously described for the master valve.

Water flow meter

A water flow meter measures how much water the irrigation system uses. In order to use a flow meter to monitor irrigation, the irrigation controller must be able to communicate with a flow meter. This requires a modern irrigation computer such as a Hunter Hydrawise computer or a Rain Bird ESP-M3 controller. With the faucet control computers, the LinkTap G2 computer offers this option; none of the Gardena computers are compatible with flow meters.

A suitable irrigation computer, in combination with a flow meter, offers the possibility to monitor the following things:

  • Is the water consumption of a sector higher than the usual consumption?
  • Is water consumed even though no sector was active?

This identifies both of the problems mentioned at the beginning of the report. And with computers like Hunter Hydrawise, you can be notified automatically by push message on your mobil phone or by e-mail if one of the defined rules exceeds or falls below the limit value. With the use of a water flow meter, you are automatically informed when the water consumption exceeds the usual level and you also notice if an irrigation should not run unexpectedly and you can react to problems very quickly. In some irrigation programs it can also be specified that the master valve is closed when certain limit values are reached, so that further water leakage is prevented.

If the irrigation computer used does not support a water flow meter, you can use an autonomous water flow meter. In this case, the flow sensor is simply installed in the line and the threshold value from which an alarm is to be triggered is programmed into the associated control panel. The alarm can then either be output as an acoustic warning signal or the sensor switches a relay, which can then be used to activate a pump or a solenoid valve, for example.

Pros & Cons Water Flow Meter

Advantages:

  • Lets you know immediately if the water consumption is too high or if there has been no water consumption at all. This means that the two dangerous situations (irrigation continues uncontrolled or irrigation does not take place at all) are under control
  • Since you can compare the measurement results with the target values in a very targeted manner, even small deviations due to minimal leaks are noticed very quickly

Disadvantages:

  • Additional cost for a water flow meter
  • Small additional pressure drop

Protection over the pump

Modern pumps such as the Grundfos Scala include intelligent monitoring functions that can be used to identify problems in the irrigation system and subsequently stop the pump function. For example, a maximum runtime of the pump can be set, after which the pump switches off automatically. If you know, for example, that the watering runs last a maximum of 3 hours all in all, then you can set the maximum running time at 4 hours and thus have the certainty that the pump would switch off automatically if the watering did not stop after the scheduled time.

In addition, a modern pump also detects minimal leaks that lead to repeated switching on and off of the pump and switches the pump off after a user-specified number of consecutive switching on and off in exactly the same pattern. This way you can quickly track down small leaks and fix them as quickly as possible. This not only saves water, but also protects the pump, for which frequent short starts within a short period of time are not good.

Pros & Cons Protection over the pump

Advantages:

  • Protection against uncontrolled water consumption
  • Detection of small leaks

Disadvantages:

  • Modern pumps are more expensive than run-of-the-mill pumps

Solenoid valve monitoring via the irrigation computer

Modern irrigation controllers such as the Hunter Hydrawise computers and the Rain Bird ESP-TM2, ESP-ME and ESP-ME3 series computers have a built in feature that monitors that the current flow to the solenoid valves is at the expected level. A value that is too low indicates a defective cable, and a value that is too high indicates a short circuit in the magnetic coil. As soon as there is a deviation from the norm, you are notified immediately so that problems can be identified and rectified as early as possible. Hunter calls this function an integrated milliampere sensor, Rain Bird speaks of automatic short-circuit detection.

More options

When watering from a cistern with automatic water replenishment, additional protection can be provided via a water level switch. The main danger here is that water is refilled unchecked, even though the cistern is already full and the excess water runs out unnoticed for hours or days via the overflow. The water level switch automatically switches off the refilling pump or activates an alarm when a certain water level mark is exceeded, at which point the water will overflow.

An alternative way to force a pump to turn off after a certain amount of time is to use a time delay relay (Amazon Link). After activation, this counts down a user-defined time countdown from a few seconds to several days and then switches off. This is referred to as a switch-off delay.

Der Beitrag Ways to monitor and secure an irrigation system erschien zuerst auf Irrigation Blog for Do-it-yourselfer.

]]> Who needs a smart irrigation controller? https://www.irrigation-guide.com/who-needs-a-smart-irrigation-controller.html Mon, 10 Apr 2023 19:47:40 +0000 https://www.irrigation-guide.com/?p=1663 If you can believe the advertising, then everyone, without exception. But is that really the case? What does smart irrigation actually do and who can safely do without it? Below is an overview of what is available on the market, what it costs and what it can do better than a conventional irrigation computer. [...]

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If you can believe the advertising, then everyone, without exception. But is that really the case? What does smart irrigation actually do and who can safely do without it? Below is an overview of what is available on the market, what it costs and what it can do better than a conventional irrigation computer.

What is a smart irrigation controller anyway?

A smart device is a networked device, i.e. usually a device that is connected to the web or at least to a local network. The original meaning also implied that it was an “intelligent” product that made one’s daily life easier. The extent to which this still applies to the large number of smart products on offer can be questioned, the term “smart” is nowadays used more simply as a synonym for “web-enabled”.

Which products are offered on the market?

Even with the smart watering computers, a distinction must be made between water tap controllers with integrated valve and irrigation computers for external valve control that do not come into contact with water. Depending on the type of control you want to implement, you need one type or the other. Irrigation producers active in the professional sector such as Hunter, Rain Bird and Toro only offer computers for external valve control, while water tap controllers are offered by a large number of producers.

Some smart watering computers, such as those from Gardena or the LinkTap computer, require an additional gateway to function. This additional device is connected to the web and in turn communicates with the irrigation computer. This interposition of a gateway has the advantage that a wireless system that is more powerful than W-LAN, such as Zigbee, can be used from the gateway to the irrigation computer, so that longer ranges and an even more reliable connection are possible. Such a gateway must be purchased in addition to the irrigation computer, at Gardena about 100 USD are due for it. Other irrigation systems such as Hunter Hydrawise, the web system from Rain Bird or Eve-Aqua connect directly to the W-LAN without an intermediate gateway. Orbit has both irrigation controllers with and without a gateway in its range, the Orbit gateway is relatively inexpensive at around USD 40. Hunter specifies the typical range of a WiFi network as approx. 150 to 200 feet and recommends staying within this range with the Hunter Hydrawise controller in any case.

Below is an overview of the most popular smart irrigation controllers available on the market.

Smart irrigation controller type “water tap controller”:

Orbit B-Hyve Hose Tap LinkTap G2S Eve Aqua

Auto Amazon Links: Could not resolve the given unit type, . Please be sure to update the auto-insert definition if you have deleted the unit.

Auto Amazon Links: Could not resolve the given unit type, . Please be sure to update the auto-insert definition if you have deleted the unit.

Auto Amazon Links: Could not resolve the given unit type, . Please be sure to update the auto-insert definition if you have deleted the unit.
Additional gateway necessary? Yes Yes No

Smart irrigation controller type “external valve control”:

Hunter PRO-HC Hydrawise Orbit B-hyve XR Rain Bird ST8I-2.0

Auto Amazon Links: Could not resolve the given unit type, . Please be sure to update the auto-insert definition if you have deleted the unit.

Auto Amazon Links: Could not resolve the given unit type, . Please be sure to update the auto-insert definition if you have deleted the unit.

Auto Amazon Links: Could not resolve the given unit type, . Please be sure to update the auto-insert definition if you have deleted the unit.
Additional gateway necessary? No No No

Advantages of web-enabled irrigation computers

Below is an overview of the potential benefits of smart irrigation computers.

Remote control of the computer

With the associated app, irrigation computers connected with the web can be controlled and programmed with a mobil phone. Programming is usually easier this way, since it is easier and quicker to carry out via the app than if you have to navigate through the submenus of the irrigation computer using a button navigation. Even a repeated adjustment and refinement of the irrigation programming after the initial setup, which is usually necessary, is more fun and less effort.

The use of the mobile phone as a remote control allows you to start watering from the living room, which saves you having to go to the computer. Programmed watering cycles can be paused, postponed, lengthened or shortened at any time with just one click on the mobile phone.

Operation on the go/during vacation

The computer can be operated from anywhere in the world, regardless of location. It is therefore also possible to start a necessary watering from your workplace or holiday location or to skip it if it has rained enough. You can also allow other people to access the computer via app or web browser.

Water saving by including online weather data

From my point of view, this is the most important reason to buy a smart irrigation controller: Almost all smart irrigation computers now offer the option of obtaining weather data such as rainfall, temperature, wind speed and humidity online and using it to control your own watering. In the good systems, this can be done both on the basis of the weather data of the past few days and based on the weather to be expected in the next few days. Local weather data is used, which reflects the situation at the site of irrigation as accurately as possible.

The overriding goal is always to irrigate sufficiently using as little water as possible, i.e. to only give the plants water when they need it and then only in the amount that they need or can absorb. This saves water and protects both the environment and your wallet.

Some suppliers like Hunter (Hydrawise software), Orbit B-hyve, Rachio, OpenSprinkler and also LinkTap are already very far and offer systems that work well in practice and with which considerable water savings are possible. Rain Bird and Gardena are not quite there yet, but have taken the first successful steps in this direction. Retrieving the online weather data is basically free in all systems, there are no running costs for it, but sometimes optional paid updates are offered, with which you can have even more precise data or retrieve the data even more up-to-date or even use your own weather station.

Saves the purchase of sensors

This argument is the logical consequence of the argument before: If you get the weather data online, then you don’t need any additional sensors to measure these values yourself. The extent to which a complete replacement is possible depends primarily on how good the software of the smart irrigation controller is. The best systems such as Hydrawise not only call up the weather values, but also calculate further information from them. For example, the soil moisture value prevailing in the soil is extrapolated from rainfall, temperature, wind speed and humidity, thus replacing the measurements of a soil moisture sensor. What is currently not (yet) possible is reacting immediately to the onset of rainfall, since the weather data is not called up non-stop, but only from time to time. This is currently only possible with an additional rain sensor, which stops irrigation that is already running as soon as it registers rain.

Warns of malfunctions/technical defects

This advantage is often overlooked, but from my point of view it is one of the most important arguments for a smart water computer: The smart system warns you if a planned watering cannot take place for any technical reasons, if the voltage at the outputs to the solenoid valves is not suitable or if the water consumption is unusually high or low or if water consumption occurs even though no watering is taking place (leak). This is done via e-mails, SMS or push messages in the app. This active notification is a great advantage compared to a conventional irrigation computer, where in the worst case you only notice such problems after weeks and months and after major damage has already occurred. These warnings are either activated by default or can be specifically created and modified by the user. The computer must be equipped with a flow sensor to warn of a leak.

Operation/maintenance by professionals possible

Some of the smart systems allow setting up and maintenance to be delegated to professionals. They then access the system as admins, the homeowner himself only has limited, read-only access in which settings cannot be changed. Similar to some alarm systems, where the homeowner only takes care of the daily operation, but the programming is done by a professional. The professionals can also access the watering schedules they have worked out and use them for all their clients at the touch of a button.

Enthusiasm for technology/status symbol

Some people just enjoy being on the cutting edge and dabbling in the latest technology.
And not rational, but probably a not-so-rare reason to buy it: For some, owning a smart-looking, expensive gadget is simply a status symbol, and the word “smart” sounds modern and good. Just like the latest iPhone or Samsung Galaxy mobil phone, which hardly anyone needs due to its range of functions, but which people like to own for reasons of prestige.

Integration in smart home environment

The last point is the possibility of integrating a smart irrigation system into an existing smart home environment. I rate this potential advantage as very low, firstly because the options for integration are currently very limited and secondly because they hardly make any sense. An irrigation system is basically a self-contained system in which there are hardly any meaningful combinations with other systems. The only application scenario that is sometimes mentioned and that makes at least some sense is the combination with an alarm system in order to get intruders properly wet when a motion sensor mounted in the garden is struck. In some cases, the combination with a smart lawn mower is also mentioned so that the devices can coordinate, i.e. it does not mow when the lawn is being irrigated. However, this smart interaction makes little sense, since it can be done much more easily by creating a coordinated program.

A possible voice control via Alexa or Google Home does not have too much additional value, since once an irrigation system has been set up, hardly any action is required, so there is hardly any need to control it by voice command.

Conversely, with OpenSprinkler there is an irrigation computer that includes additional smart home functionalities by not only enabling the control of irrigation, but also of various sensors.

Conclusion and recommendation

The use of a smart irrigation controller has understandable advantages: you can use weather data available online for watering and thus save unnecessary watering, and automatically sent warning messages are an additional safety net if something does not work correctly with the watering. In this way, the problem is discovered quickly, even before major damage can occur. The fact that you can start the irrigation from the comfort of your couch without going to the computer and that you can control it with your mobil phone even on vacation are real advantages that make it more convenient to use. Access to the online weather data fulfills the tasks of an additional sensor and thus saves you having to purchase it separately. The price surcharge compared to a conventional irrigation computer is put into perspective a little with this argument.

Nevertheless, the costs for a smart watering computer are still a bit higher in the end. For a conventional irrigation computer that can be used to irrigate several sectors, you can calculate around 80 to 120 USD, an additional soil moisture sensor costs around 60 to 70 USD. Smart irrigation controllers cost around 180 to 300 USD. So you should think carefully about whether the advantages mentioned are worth the extra charge. Much of this can also be achieved in other ways: The weather-dependent irrigation can be carried out via soil moisture or evapotranspiration sensors, instead of remotely controlling the irrigation from vacation, it can also be programmed in advance and the risk of defects can be reduced with regular on-site checks. It’s all a little less comfortable and little high-end, but it works the same way in the end.

If you opt for a smart watering controller, then you should compare exactly which of the systems on offer can actually be used to achieve the desired goals. Some of the systems are now very mature and tried and tested in practice, while others still have a lot of room for improvement in terms of software and still have a lot of development work to do in order to catch up with the best. I have tested some of the systems available here on the website.

Der Beitrag Who needs a smart irrigation controller? erschien zuerst auf Irrigation Blog for Do-it-yourselfer.

]]> Overview of spray bodies available on the market https://www.irrigation-guide.com/overview-of-spray-bodies-available-on-the-market.html Fri, 30 Dec 2022 20:50:21 +0000 https://www.irrigation-guide.com/?p=1356 A distinction is made between two parts in spray sprinklers: the nozzle and the associated body. Nozzle and body can be combined as desired and are also sold separately in stores. The body is practically the sprinkler house from which the nozzle moves up. It essentially consists of a cylindrical casing and a riser [...]

Der Beitrag Overview of spray bodies available on the market erschien zuerst auf Irrigation Blog for Do-it-yourselfer.

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A distinction is made between two parts in spray sprinklers: the nozzle and the associated body. Nozzle and body can be combined as desired and are also sold separately in stores. The body is practically the sprinkler house from which the nozzle moves up. It essentially consists of a cylindrical casing and a riser housed in the casing, which ensures that the nozzle mounted on it rises a few inches above the earth’s surface from the casing buried in the ground. In addition, a thread is attached to the body with which it is connected to the water pipeline.

Cross reference: In a separate blog post you will find an overview of the nozzles available on the market

The bodies from Hunter, Rain Bird and Toro, i.e. the three major suppliers on the irrigation market, are presented below. All three offer several different bodies. Rain Bird and Hunter nozzles not only fit into all bodies of their own brand, but can also be used across manufacturers, i.e. Hunter nozzles in Rain Bird bodies and vice versa. This is also common practice in the world of irrigation. You should always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations whenever possible, as certain bodies are particularly suitable for certain nozzles, e.g. pressure-regulated bodies for rotating nozzles. Care must be taken when using non-Toro nozzles in Toro bodies or Toro nozzles in non-Toro bodies, as Toro nozzles can have both female and male thread connections, but only female nozzles can be used in the Rain Bird and Hunter bodies.

Some of the bodies are offered in a large number of different risers, i.e. with risers of different heights or as a shrub version (body without riser that cannot be lowered and remains on the surface). The type designations reflect the measurement of the riser: 02 stands 2 inches, 03 for 3 inches,  04 for 4 inches, 06 for 6 inches and 12 for 12 inches. All bodies presented here have a 1/2 inch internal thread connection.

Hunter PS Ultra, Rain Bird Uni-Spray and Toro LPS are marketed as entry-level models for private users. From my point of view, there is little reason to reach for them even as a private person: The models located above them are at least a touch better and much more varied and also cost practically the same. The only reasonable reason to use them is optical considerations, due to the slightly smaller outlet in the garden soil (see below under “Diameter visible from above”).

Hunter Bodies

Hunter offers 4 different bodies: PS Ultra, Pro-Spray, PRS-30 and PRS-40.

Hunter PS Ultra Hunter Pro-Spray Hunter PRS-30 Hunter PRS-40

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PS Ultra is the entry-level body aimed at private users. It doesn’t have a quite as strong return spring as the other three models and only has a 2-year warranty instead of 5 years. Above all, it has – like the entry-level models of the two competitors – a smaller head diameter. So if you want to have the smallest possible outlet in the floor for optical reasons, you can achieve that with the PS Ultra.

On the other hand, there are significantly fewer riser variants for the PS Ultra than for the other models. The Pro-Spray and the PRS bodies are also more stable and therefore also well suited for places that are frequented by many people. According to Hunter, the PS Ultra is also not suitable for use with graywater, so it should not be used with water that comes from your own well. Some of the PS Ultra entry-level models are available on the market with already pre-installed nozzles (Hunter Pro nozzles with variable sector 8A, 10A, 12A, 15A, 17A or an SS-530 side strip nozzle). The main difference between the PRS bodies and the Pro-Spray is the built-in pressure regulation to 30 psi (PRS-30) or 40 psi (PRS-40).

Model comparison

Model Diameter visible from above Guarantee Pressure regulation Drain check valve Price
Hunter PS Ultra 1.18 inches 2 years No No Appr. 4 USD
Hunter Pro-Spray 2.24 inches 5 years No No/Yes (depending on the model) Appr. 4 USD
Hunter PRS-30 2.24 inches 5 years Yes (30 psi) No/Yes (depending on the model) Appr. 10 USD
Hunter PRS-40 2.24 inches 5 years Yes (40 psi) Yes Appr. 10 USD

Notes: Models with an integrated check valve have a “CV” in the type designation. The Hunter Eco-Rotator sprinkler available on the market is not a separate type of sprinkler, but a PS Ultra body with a 4 inches riser and pre-installed MP-Rotator nozzle.

Riser variants

The 4 models are available with the following different risers:

Modell 2 inches 3 inches 4 inches 6 inches 12 inches Shrub
PS Ultra Yes Yes Yes
Pro-Spray Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
PRS-30 Yes Yes Yes Yes
PRS-40 Yes Yes Yes Yes

Rain Bird Bodies

Rain Bird also has 4 bodies that are quite similar to the Hunter bodies: Uni-Spray, 1800 Series, RD1800 Series P30, RD1800 Series P45.

Rain Bird Uni-Spray Rain Bird 1800 Series Rain Bird RD1800 Series P30 Rain Bird RD1800 Series P45

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Uni-Spray is the entry-level model and therefore the counterpart to Hunter’s PS Ultra. Compared to the other three models, it has a significantly smaller head diameter and is only offered in a 4 inch riser version. It is often offered on the market in a ready-to-use combination with Rain Bird HE-VAN nozzles (8, 10, 12 or 15). The 1800 series is according to Rain Bird the best-selling spray body in the world. In addition to many other variants, it is also available in a pressure-regulated variant (recognizable by the type abbreviation “PRS” in the model name). The RD1800 is an even newer generation of models, which is specially designed for pressure regulation and also always contains a check valve. In the P30 variant, the pressure is regulated to 30 psi and in the P45 variant to 45 psi.

Model comparison

Model Diameter visible from above Guarantee Pressure regulation Drain check valve Price
Rain Bird Uni-Spray 1.26 inches 2 years No No Appr. 4 USD
Rain Bird 1800 2.24 inches 5 years No/Yes (depending on the model) No/Yes (depending on the model) Appr. 4 USD
Rain Bird RD1800 P30 2.24 inches 5 years Yes (30 psi) Yes Appr. 10 USD
Rain Bird RD1800 P45 2.24 inches 5 years Yes (40 psi) Yes Appr. 10 USD

The RD1800 P30 and RD1800 P45 bodies can be purchased with an additional flow protection device as an option. With this, the sprinkler automatically registers when the nozzle has been removed from a pressurized sprinkler, e.g. due to vandalism or damage. Instead of allowing the water to spray out of the sprinkler in a fountain, the anti-flow device automatically ensures that the water flow is greatly reduced. As a result, less water is lost. This is probably not an issue for the typical private user, but is interesting for irrigated areas that are only inspected from time to time.

Riser variants

The 4 models are available with the following different risers:

Modell 2 inches 4 inches 6 inches 12 inches
Uni-Spray Yes
1800 Yes Yes Yes Yes
RD1800 P30 Yes Yes Yes
RD1800 P45 Yes Yes Yes

Toro Bodies

Toro also offers roughly the same body models: Toro LPS, Toro 570Z, Toro 570ZPR.

Toro LPS Toro 570Z/Toro 570 Toro 570ZPR

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At Toro, the entry-level body is called Toro LPS. It is often sold with the nozzles already installed (TVAN 8, 10, 12, 15 or 17). The Toro 570Z is the better body aimed at corporate customers. It is also sold to private customers in an identical form as Toro 570. The 570ZPR also has integrated pressure regulation. The 570 models are also optionally available with an additional flow protection device, which Toro calls “X-Flow”.

Model comparison

Model Diameter visible from above Guarantee Pressure regulation Drain check valve Price
Toro LPS 1.6 inches 2 years No No/Yes (depending on the model) Appr. 3 USD
Toro 570Z 2.0 inches 2 years No No/Yes (depending on the model) Appr. 4 USD
Toro 570ZPR 2.0 inches 5 years Yes (30 psi) No/Yes (depending on the model) Appr. 14 USD

Riser variants

The 4 models are available with the following different risers:

Model 2 inches 3 inches 4 inches 6 inches  12 inches Shrub
Toro LPS Yes Yes
Toro 570Z/Toro 570 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Toro 570ZPR Yes Yes Yes Yes

Cover image: Hunter

Der Beitrag Overview of spray bodies available on the market erschien zuerst auf Irrigation Blog for Do-it-yourselfer.

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